I have a niece who is looking for housing. I have become acutely aware that I only truly understand the struggles many people face when someone I care about experiences them. As much as I dislike that about myself, I am learning this to be true. In this reality, I am learning to grow in my knowledge and commit to advocating for many people’s critical life needs. There is a shortage of housing; there is a shortage of vouchers to help pay for housing, and there is a shortage of resources about where to go while you are on the 2- to 5-year waitlist.
The other significant shortage in our community is infant daycare. When she started calling around, we learned that most people are on the list for daycare about 9 to 12 months before daycare is needed or as early as conception. It makes life and independence pretty challenging when housing and daycare are not accessible to a young woman whose earning potential is not yet in the professional salary range.
In these last months, I have learned so much about housing and daycare, and I have begun to pray daily for mothers and children who need a home and good care. May we all work together to identify solutions that serve those who live lives we have never lived or do not understand. May our compassion and assistance bring hope and change to those we encounter.
❤️ Trish
