Social Media Keeps Housing Residents Updated

Social media has become such an important part of our daily lives, that the majority of us spend way too much time scrolling through Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and Instagram. However, social media has the capacity to reach millions of people within minutes, and is now one of the first places, if not only place, that many go for news, updates, resources, and general information as to what’s going on in their community and around the world.

Knowledge is power, and in order to gain knowledge people need to have access to information and education. Social media is a great way for people to have access to needed information that can help them gain knowledge. The coronavirus pandemic has been wreaking havoc across the United States since March, and does not seem to be slowing down at all. Social media has allowed those without access to broadcast news and newspapers to learn how to protect themselves and their families, where they can get tested, and information on any and all resources that are available for those in need.

Providing needed information on resources and opportunities is an important part of Public Housing agencies. Ensuring that all residents receive information, changes, resources, and opportunities in the community in a timely manner is very important, which is where social media comes in. The good, the bad, and the ugly that goes on in the world can be found on social media. In fact, some information gets put on social media before it should, which can be devastating to some, but for others, it's the only way to know who died, who’s getting married, who had a baby, etc.

Since posting information and resources on social media, especially Facebook and Twitter, we have not only seen an increase in calls from our residents, but we have also seen an increase in calls and inquiries from others in the community. Since information, resources, and events are not only for those who live in a housing community, resident services have seen a 35% increase in calls from those outside the community wanting more information on events and resources.

With all that the changes and uncertainty that 2020 brought, it has been great to continue to provide information on community resources as well as offer support and encouragement to all in the community, not just those who live within housing developments. Social media has allowed us to continue to be a voice and advocate for all who are in need.