The housing crisis continues to impact the community, and a local not-for-profit is sharing some heartfelt stories about the struggle.
United Way Perth-Huron has released The Workers Need Housing, short video focusing on two workers from the counties facing challenges with eviction and high rents.
Emily, an accountant from Perth County, was evicted at the height of the pandemic, according to United Way. She found a new unit that was $1,000 more per month, and much less desirable.
Minimum-wage earner Victoria, of Huron County, and her husband pay more than half of their income for a small one-bedroom unit.
The videos come as rent costs have risen significantly.
United Way Executive Director Ryan Erb said “many workers simply cannot afford the housing they need.”
“For minimum wage workers and young professionals alike, working hard isn’t enough when prices and rents are so high,” he said.
The videos were sponsored by the Four County Labour Market Planning Board, who found in their research that housing is the top barrier to hiring.
United Way hopes through the videos, viewers can share their support for increased funding for non-profit housing.
Both videos can be found on United Way Perth-Huron’s website.
