Addressing Housing Instability for a Healthier Community
Over the last several years, Fort HealthCare (FHC) has prioritized addressing housing instability, a key social determinant of health identified in our 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). Through strategic partnerships and targeted investments, FHC has led several initiatives to improve access to stable, affordable housing, recognizing its critical impact on overall health outcomes.
In collaboration with the Homeless Coalition of Fort Atkinson (HCFA), FHC initially provided two vacant homes for use as transitional housing. In 2024, FHC will be donating these homes to the HCFA, offering safe, stable environments for families in need. This partnership extends beyond housing, providing comprehensive support services, including case management, financial counseling, and access to healthcare, equipping families for long-term stability.
Building on these efforts, FHC donated land to Habitat for Humanity in 2024 for the construction of a duplex, further expanding access to affordable housing in our community. Additionally, FHC made a significant $3 million investment to the Live Local Development Fund (LLDF), administered by Thrive Economic Development, to support multi-family housing projects in Jefferson County. LLDF, currently totaling $9.5 million, makes it feasible for developers to build much-needed housing units, with projections showing that up to 5,250 market-rate units could be consumed within three years if built. This fund addresses the projected shortage of 3,500 housing units by 2029, making housing more accessible for local families and workers.
These initiatives have been supported by the collaborative efforts of community partners, including the City of Fort Atkinson, Jefferson County, local businesses, and volunteers. Together, we have not only provided essential housing but have also strengthened the foundation for a healthier, more resilient community. Fort HealthCare remains committed to continuing these efforts, understanding that addressing housing instability is crucial to improving health outcomes and fostering long-term community well-being.
In collaboration with the Homeless Coalition of Fort Atkinson (HCFA), FHC initially provided two vacant homes for use as transitional housing. In 2024, FHC will be donating these homes to the HCFA, offering safe, stable environments for families in need. This partnership extends beyond housing, providing comprehensive support services, including case management, financial counseling, and access to healthcare, equipping families for long-term stability.
Building on these efforts, FHC donated land to Habitat for Humanity in 2024 for the construction of a duplex, further expanding access to affordable housing in our community. Additionally, FHC made a significant $3 million investment to the Live Local Development Fund (LLDF), administered by Thrive Economic Development, to support multi-family housing projects in Jefferson County. LLDF, currently totaling $9.5 million, makes it feasible for developers to build much-needed housing units, with projections showing that up to 5,250 market-rate units could be consumed within three years if built. This fund addresses the projected shortage of 3,500 housing units by 2029, making housing more accessible for local families and workers.
These initiatives have been supported by the collaborative efforts of community partners, including the City of Fort Atkinson, Jefferson County, local businesses, and volunteers. Together, we have not only provided essential housing but have also strengthened the foundation for a healthier, more resilient community. Fort HealthCare remains committed to continuing these efforts, understanding that addressing housing instability is crucial to improving health outcomes and fostering long-term community well-being.
