On March 6, 2024, Thrive! Union hosted the "Making Affordable Housing Attainable" symposium, an event focused on addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing in our community. 

The symposium brought together elected officials, Thrive! Union members, and concerned community members to engage in meaningful discussions on effective strategies and potential initiatives to combat the affordable housing crisis directly impacting our region.

The symposium was aligned with the priorities outlined by the Healthy Union Advisory Coalition. Established in the fall of 2020, the coalition's overarching goal is to ensure all people in Union County have access to safe, healthy and affordable housing. The event served as a platform to address specific issues identified by the coalition that impact affordable housing and homelessness in our community.

The symposium shed light on the lack of affordable housing and subsequent increase in homelessness for low-income workers and families in our community. It's crucial to recognize that among these low-income workers are our dedicated teachers and first responders, who are struggling to find affordable housing options. Some challenges highlighted during the event included the absence of rental assistance programs, stagnant wages, high rents, limited rental properties, and increased costs of building materials, among other factors contributing to the affordability crisis. The NC Housing Coalition presented valuable insights into affordable housing solutions implemented in other counties across the state, offering potential models for Union County to explore. 

"As we reflect on the insights gained from the symposium, it is clear that affordable housing is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach," said Stephanie Starr, Union County's Community Support and Outreach Director. "Union County remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to create a brighter future where safe, healthy and affordable housing is within reach for everyone."

The symposium underscored the importance of fostering collaboration among elected officials, community members, and experts to develop holistic solutions to address the complex challenges facing our community.  By harnessing the collective strength of stakeholders and leveraging the expertise of Thrive! Union members, the event paved the way for innovative approaches to make affordable housing attainable for all residents of Union County.

For more information on future initiatives and other priority areas, visit our Healthy Union Advisory Coalition page.

Writing down ideas shared during the symposium.


Several people sitting down at round tables attending the symposium.

Deirdre Barbee, Emergency Shelter Case Manager for the Community Shelter of Union County, takes notes during the symposium.