Housing is a basic need for individuals. Without adequate affordable housing, it is harder to acquire other basic needs. Affordable housing allows individuals to also be able to pay for doctor visits and transportation, as well as gain more access to nutritious foods. Housing costs in Central Oregon are high. Central Oregon Deschutes County residents spend, on average, 55% of their income on housing and transportation. In Crook County, that percentage rises to 65% of income. Severe rent or mortgage burden occurs in over 8% of individuals in Central Oregon.
"This assistance helped relieve the financial burden that was adding so much stress to her life, which made it possible for her to focus on finishing chemotherapy and going back to work. When Ann checked in with her, she was about to start working again and was on the road to recovery— physically, emotionally, and financially."
A total of 1,140 individuals were served in the timeline allotted for this project.
98 renting households became home owners over the grant timeline.
392 unstably-households received financial assistance.
A large percentage (79%) received help for over three months over the grant term.
Referrals to community programs and NeighborImpact increased during the grant timeline. Because of these community connections, the impact of the project extended beyond housing accessibility.
92% of participants indicated stress relief after a financial counseling session.
Participants were taught valuable budgeting skills.
A client-centric model helped NeighborImpact fix the root cause of financial instability, not just personal financial struggles.