In Boston, there is great prosperity and greater need. Shining skyscrapers tower over those sleeping on the streets. People have to work long hours or multiple jobs just to afford an apartment. Home ownership is a primary way of gaining financial security. For many, owning a home is completely out of reach. Racist discrimination in lending and housing have locked out people of color from home ownership for decades. A staggering Boston Globe report showed that the average net worth of Boston’s African American families is eight dollars ($8.00).
We are working with the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization and the City of Boston to help 1,000 families become first time homeowners between 2019-2024. We work with City Mission to support rent-burdened single mothers who are in danger of losing their housing. A peer-community support model, this program helps dozens of families a year stay in their homes and get on the path to financial stability. We develop relationships of mutual respect with people living on the street. We meet some of society's most vulnerable people where they are, fostering hope. These efforts build on decades of affordable housing initiatives led by Old South Church.
