Waukesha County groups are working to increase affordable housing
Waukesha, Wis. (October 24, 2017) – Nearly 200 community members attended the Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha County Housing Champions Awards Luncheon last Thursday at the Milwaukee Marriott West. The event raised awareness of the issue of the lack of affordable housing in Waukesha County. Several individuals and organizations working to increase the amount of affordable housing in the region were recognized at the event.
The Southeastern Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC) and RiverGlen Christian Church were named Habitat Waukesha’s 2017 Housing Champions. Bill Goodman of Wallboard, Inc. was named Industry Partner of the Year, and community member Jim Lawler was named Volunteer of the Year. Each was recognized and presented an award at the event.
The luncheon, emceed by TMJ4’s Steve Chamraz, opened with housing trivia that many attendees found surprising. Approximately 27% of Waukesha County households pay more than 30% of their income for housing (source - HUD). Attendees also learned that in the past 12 months, the average sale price of a single family home in Waukesha County that is less than 10 years old was $495,507 (source - Multiple Listing Service).
Keynote speaker, Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow, spoke about the four stages of housing to match the stages of life. He stated that by increasing the amount of stage two, or affordable housing, in the area, we can “give people the opportunity to be part of what I think is going to be one of the strongest cities in the state.”
“There is a real need for affordable workforce housing in Waukesha County. We are grateful to everyone who works hard to make sure there are homes available for families who work in the county and want to live here as well,” said Diane McGeen, Executive Director of Habitat of Waukesha County.
WaterStone Bank and Waterstone Mortgage were presenting sponsors for the event; Actuant Corporation and Town Bank were also top sponsors.
About Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha County
Since 1989, Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha County has addressed the lack of affordable housing in our area by providing decent homes with an affordable mortgage to help lower to moderate income families obtain self-sufficiency and break the cycle of poverty. Habitat partner families help build their home alongside volunteers and make regular mortgage payments. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, you can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, please visit www.habitatwaukesha.org.
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