Public Housing: The Things You Don’t Know

We all know what it’s like to experience those things life has to offer from the outside looking in. We know the ease and convenience of being oblivious to the ups and downs, the highs and lows, and the behind the scenes of a number of experiences we may have. There are restaurants with the most delicious foods, yet we have no idea what goes into running the restaurant or creating such delicacy. There are schools with the best staff and the most highly instructional curriculum, yet we have no clue what it takes to make it all run smoothly or to successfully educate each student. Then we have the dynamic of public housing, and the narrative that comes with it. Whether that is a good thing or a bad thing, sometimes we are oblivious to certain inclusive aspects of being a part of the public housing community. There are many opportunities to miss out on the hidden gems of public housing, such as the self-sufficiency programs, the government assisted partnerships, and the opportunities to be educated on being socially and politically active within the community.

Each public housing resident has a unique story and circumstance. Many of the occupants who want to become more self-sufficient have been unsuccessful in their attempts because they lack the necessary resources and support needed to reach certain individual goals. One of the admirable aspects of public housing is the desire to effectively aid tenants on their journey to not only becoming self-sufficient, but also productive and financially stable. Public Housing offers a variety of programs that are intended for just that. Not only are there government assisted grants that aid in paid tuition for continuing education (including scholarships), there are also job fairs and assistance with transportation, as well as financial contributions that may be needed for new hire materials. Classes are also offered that further educate individuals on subjects such as how to write a resume and what to expect in a job interview.

Public Housing is a two word label that not only defines affordable housing to the community and those who need it, but it encompasses the meaning behind true community. One of the aspects that keeps public housing alive and thriving is that of family, but not just in the traditional sense. All over the community, there are local businesses, successful individuals, and even government assisted grant programs that have joined forces with public housing to ensure its residents are well taken care of. Such opportunities that are offered, yet overlooked are local churches and community businesses that have partnered with public housing to provide food assistance to the elder community. Aaron’s and other renowned companies have been providing backpacks full of school supplies and educational material to school-aged children for years. There have been a number of community volunteers who have donated their time to teach mother’s about taking care of themselves, as well as providing those who would never have received otherwise, knowledge on nutritional health.

One other hidden gem of public housing is the opportunities that are presented to the residents regarding connections to the political side of the community. There is knowledge in knowing and wisdom in experience. With the option to commit to serving the community during elections, holidays, food giveaways, and more, residents have doors opened to them for them to meet the powerhouse leaders within the community and have their voices heard. Learning about the city council by living in public housing may seem like a small feat, but once that knowledge expounds into what becomes traveling to lunches with the leaders of the Chamber of Commerce, meeting the mayor and speaking up for what you believe in, and developing relationships with the owners of the small businesses that make our community thrive, residents are afforded the respect and admiration to make changes within their own neighborhoods and for their neighbors.