Catch Up on the Conversation

Affordable housing continues to be among the top concerns of Midlands residents, as revealed during the 2020 On the Table conversations according to survey data. Panelists focus on what is currently happening in the region around affordable housing, what the current needs are to move forward, and action steps for how you can get involved.

The Table Talk series dives deeper into areas of opportunity uncovered through the On the Table initiative through informative panels and small group conversations.

VIEW THE RECORDING

Panelists:

• Rebecca Liebson – Housing and Livability Reporter, The State
• Lauren Taylor – CEO, Realty Haven | Founder, Haven Home
• Jeff Larimore – Executive Director, Midlands Housing Trust Fund

Takeaways + Resources 

• Increasing access to affordable, safe and decent housing for Midlands residents makes our communities more livable and thriving. Stable homes help individuals and families gain access to other services, including education and health.
• Currently, there are both ongoing and innovative efforts among nonprofits and through public-private partnerships to increase access to affordable housing for Midlands residents.
• For an overview of current South Carolina housing needs, review this assessment by SC Housing.
• While affordable housing access is a complex issue, each individual in the community can lean into their own strength to help make our communities stronger. There are a number of different ways to get involved!
  • Join Columbia Housing’s letter writing campaign with NAHRO to reach Congress with advocacy messages about affordable housing and community development programs.
  • Stay up to date with what is happening locally regarding affordable housing by subscribing to The State or follow Rebecca Liebson on Twitter.
  • Engage with local government by calling and emailing legislators to ensure affordable housing remains top of mind is critical.
  • Learn about zoning in your neighborhood. If there is potential to change zoning, organize your neighbors to petition for residential rezoning.