Howard County is widely recognized as one of the wealthiest counties in the U.S. However, many households that work, attend school and contribute to the community are low income households. The lack of affordable housing in Howard County has resulted in families struggling to make rent and often becoming homeless due to the high rent burden. Every day, more than 166 people are homeless in Howard County.

Raising awareness of Howard County’s homeless population is essential. Part of raising awareness includes advocating for the systemic changes necessary that will lead to solving the issue of homelessness with housing. Lend your voice and support to community conversations about the lack of affordable housing for low wage workers in Howard County.

Bridges welcomes those who wish to raise awareness about this challenging community problem. Some traditional and digital means include:

• • Share Bridges activities and stories with your social network.
  • Host a discussion at your workplace or congregation about homelessness.
  • Suggest an affordable housing agenda item at Columbia Village Board Meetings, Columbia Association Board meetings, or public development hearings.
  • Reach out to your elected officials about their plans for addressing the shortage.
  • Inform at-risk and low-income working households about Bridges’ services and how to access them using the Howard County Coordinated System of Homeless Services (CHCS).

Ask Bridges to help guide you in hosting a discussion, organizing a presentation, writing an op-ed, or other way to advocate for affordable housing within Howard County.  Contact Jen Broderick, LCSW, Executive Director, or call 410-312-5760.