Rhode Island has been ranked 2nd in the country (only behind Hawaii) with the largest increase in unaffordability of housing over the last decade according to a new report released last week by the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The report shows the current economic crisis has continued to push affordable rental housing out of reach for average Rhode Islanders. RI is ranked 15th for highest rental costs in the country.
According to the report, a family needs 2.6 minimum wage earner(s) working 40 hours per week year-round in order to afford a two bedroom at the fair market rent.
“This report verifies what we are seeing day to day here in our state,” explained Brenda Clement, Executive Director for Housing Action Coalition of RI. “As Rhode Island’s economy continues to struggle, we see more and more Rhode Island families struggling to remain in their home or find an adequate, safe and affordable place to live.”
This report is another reminder of why the state programs that support affordable housing and homeless prevention are so critical. Now, more than ever, we need our elected officials to act boldly to prevent more Rhode Island residents from slipping into homelessness.
The Neighborhood Opportunities Program (NOP) is the only state-funded program that subsidizes the cost of affordable rental housing for very low-income families and individuals with disabilities. NOP has been zeroed out in the Governor’s proposed budget. Our legislators need to step up and save this crucial program. Agree? Tell them directly (and quickly) with this online tool.