The Housing Center is expanding its consumer education program through a grant from Westfield Insurance, to reach more low-and moderate-income individuals, increase equal access to housing opportunities, and revitalize communities.
Each year in Northeast Ohio, there are over 33,000 instances (reported and unreported) of housing discrimination. Many people do not know that fair housing laws protect people on the basis of race, national origin, sex, religion, color, ancestry, familial status, military service, and disability (mental or physical). Everyone is protected, and communities benefit from diversity and equal access to housing.
The goal of this Consumer Education Initiative is to increase awareness about housing discrimination and the protections in place to prevent discrimination in housing and lending. The project equips consumers with the knowledge of their fair housing rights and what to do if they are violated. When people are empowered by this information, they are better able to access the housing of their choice, which improves neighborhood stability and encourages inclusive communities. Workshops and tabling events will be conducted with community organizations throughout Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties.
The Housing Center is grateful to Westfield Insurance for their generous support for the The Know Your Rights: Consumer Education Initiative program.