A tragic story with a happy ending
In this month's newsletter, we highlighted a pressing issue facing our community: older adults navigating the housing crisis. This is Patricia Lambert, and her recent struggles highlight a broader crisis affecting many Idahoans. We worked with Patricia through her eviction and housing navigation process. Her story was highlighted this week on the front page of the Idaho Press!
At 71, Pat is living with degenerative arthritis and other health issues, which has significantly impacted her mobility and overall quality of life. For years, she managed to live independently on a fixed income, but recent financial changes turned her world upside down.
When Patricia received an eviction notice, she searched high and low for other options. The HUD housing units she looked into had two-year-long waitlists, and the available options she did find were inaccessible.
Thankfully, her healthcare worker found a public apartment with an opening that Pat could afford. She is living there now with her two kitties, no longer worrying where she will sleep tonight.
As you know, over the past few years, Idaho has experienced a staggering 40% increase in average rent costs, according to Zillow. This surge has placed immense financial pressure on individuals like Pat, whose fixed income simple can't keep pace with rising expenses. Despite her best efforts to manage her budget, she found herself unable to cover the cost of her rent, leading to the loss of her housing.
This situation is part of a larger trend in Idaho. The state’s population of adults aged 65 and over has grown by 56% in the past decade, according to AARP. As more seniors like Pat face financial insecurity, the demand for affordable housing is skyrocketing, and the supply is struggling to keep up.
With the younger people that we work with, usually we can support them to increase their income. But with this population, it’s hard to get them to a point where they can live sustainably.
Pat’s story is a poignant reminder of the urgent need for systemic change. It's a call to action for policymakers, community organizations, and individuals alike to address the growing gap between fixed incomes and housing costs. Ensuring that seniors and disabled individuals have access to affordable and accessible housing is not just a matter of economic policy but of compassion and dignity.
We encourage you to join us in advocating for solutions that will support those like Pat. Whether it’s supporting local initiatives like Jesse Tree, participating in community forums, or simply spreading awareness, every action helps.
Pat's resilience and determination in the face of these challenges inspire us. We hope you feel the same. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to making our community a better place for everyone.