The Importance of Home

More than any time in recent history, home has become the center of all we do. What we once did outside our home, we are now doing at home. Work and school life has seen dramatic changes in the last two years.   

Now imagine, what if your housing were unstable, or worse yet, out of reach? Would you take on another job? Cut back on your groceries and health expenses? Rob Peter to pay Paul? For most of us, the idea of deciding between paying our rent and buying groceries and medications is an uncomfortable one.   

Yet, in the state of Maryland this is reality for the 26% of households that are extremely low income. 74% of extremely low income households are severely cost burdened and paying more than 50% of their income for housing. For every 100 of those households, there are only 32 affordable homes available. That leaves two thirds of extremely low income households competing for affordable housing that simply doesn’t exist (see graph below). 

It is this kind of data that drives the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA). We seek to strengthen communities by providing affordable housing opportunities for seniors, working families and individuals. IHA currently has 562 new affordable homes in development over the next three years. It is our joy to serve others with this much needed housing.   

We invite you to join us in this work by giving during our year end campaign which kicked off on November 1st and ends January 31, 2022. Each dollar donated is being matched by $2, thanks to our sponsors. IHA has raised $40,000 in matching sponsorship funds and our goal is to raise $20,000 more in donations. Please consider supporting this important work. To donate today text IHAHoliday to 71777 or click this link: IHA End of Year Donation

If you would like to learn more about this work or discuss a donation, please reach out to our President, Jodie Ostoich at jostoich@interfaithhousing.org.