A formerly unsheltered resident - now living in a Quest Community - is giving back by helping other women and children escape homelessness.
Inflated rents across the Atlanta region or prior evictions make apartment rental impossible for many low-income families. In recent years, close to 4,000 families in Metro Atlanta living in extended stay motels placed calls for help with the United Way 211 call center. Families in Metro Atlanta living in extended stays typically pay between $200 and $497 a week ($1988 per month), as much or more than they would pay for rent on an apartment. Wages are a big part of the problem: four out of 10 metro Atlanta workers make less than $15.40 an hour – roughly $32,000 a year, which is $2,667 a month – according to the Brookings Institution. The median rent for a modest two-bedroom apartment in Metro Atlanta is about $1,800 a month, according to Rent Cafe. With 55% of households in Metro Atlanta being renter-occupied, this is a huge challenge - especially for low-income families. Many individuals and families are struggling financially and can't afford the upfront COSTS that are needed to move into a rental unit. With our service partners, we hope to reduce the number of families living on the streets and in motels throughout Metro Atlanta. Everyone Can Help Someone.We are so proud of Ms. Murphy and her newly developed sense of belonging. She was offered a position at the City of Refuge where she is now working and helping other formerly homeless women and children to overcome their struggles with dignity. |
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