Housing is one of the most important social determinants of health (https://www.rwjf.org/content/dam/farm/reports/issue_briefs/2011/rwjf70451) for young children and their families. As part of our mission to advance health equity, Healthy & Active Before 5 hopes to serve as a link between local housing advocates and the broader network of service providers, non-profits, and community members who are part of our Leadership Council. Together, we are working towards solutions that will ensure that all families have a safe and affordable place to call home.
Many early childhood service providers work with families struggling to stay housed on a daily basis, but may not know how to advise them or what resources are available. We recommend using the 211 database or calling them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Please download our flyers outlining tenant protection policies and legal support for families in Antioch and Concord.
And, of course, we know there are not enough services to meet the current needs in our community. We encourage our partners to advocate for housing security policies so that families aren’t faced with these challenges in the first place. We will continue to keep our Leadership Council informed about opportunities to take action on this critical issue. If you’re not already on the list, join us! Click here for the link to sign up for our email newsletter!
Here are some of the organizations who are leading the housing fight and providing vital services in our region:
Contra Costa Health, Housing, and Homeless Services
For more background, research, and resources regarding young children and housing security, please see the following reports:
BARHII: Housing Stability and Family Health: An Issue Brief
The Housing Crisis Hits Home in Concord
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Health and Housing
Urban Displacement Report: Rising Housing Costs and Re-Segregation in Contra Costa County