Charities fight against Ozaukee affordable housing shortage that`s driving up rent prices

PORT WASHINGTON, Wis. — Charities in Ozaukee County continue to work against a shortage of affordable housing in the area.

Joana Hemschemeyer works for the local chapter of Family Promise, an organization working to combat housing insecurity in the area, even among professions like teaching and firemen.

"The workers who are living here in Ozaukee County can`t afford to live here," Hemschemeyer said.

Family Promise operates a shelter outside of downtown Port Washington. The organization works directly with landlords to help individuals and working families find homes, particularly those who have experienced setbacks like job loss, medical debt, car accidents or criminal records...

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Notes: Leo’s notes: Ozaukee County’s housing shortage is pricing out even its essential workers—teachers, firefighters, and families striving to stay afloat. Family Promise’s work highlights the urgent need for more housing options and a deeper understanding of local needs. A countywide housing study is a smart first step toward long-term solutions that ensure stability, dignity, and opportunity for all residents.

Ken Notes: I would like to see the focus more on those with jobs who are often lost in the system. Social programs exist for those with job loss, medical debt, car accidents or criminal records. There are few if any affordable market rate homes, condos, multiplexes, or modern developments with smaller lots and homes with shared amenities for service and retail workers.