The need to rely on resources

Editor’s note: Our “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” series shares the perspectives of Steele County residents who have faced affordable housing challenges. The interviews, which have been lightly edited for clarity, were conducted by volunteers with the Steele County Housing Coalition, which is working on local affordable housing solutions. 

Karen Torrez                                                                                       

What is your occupation?  Stay at home with kids.

Do you have housing at this time? Is your housing affordable, safe, and large enough for your and/or your family's needs? If not, please share what is lacking.

Yes, no, in market rate housing. It takes a good portion of our income.                               

What would you like to tell us about your experience with obtaining housing that you can comfortably afford (30% or less of income)?

Hard to get into low-income housing, long waits. Have been on waiting lists for 2 years. I have to call every 6 months.                                                                       

What has your experience taught you about homelessness and/or housing insecurity?

Being a single mom, I rely on the resources in the community to get by.  

What would you like the community to know?

Open up opportunities for single moms to be off to provide for our children.