SOLUTION TO HOMELESS = CHILD TAX CREDIT
Great news that programs for the homeless are receiving funding in Boulder County (News, “Boulder County receives funding for homeless solutions,” May 18, 2023). At the same time, we need national solutions to end the crisis of the unhoused. A renter tax credit is being considered by Congress that would end the people trapped in poverty from paying more than 30% of their income for rent. Millions currently pay 50% and more. At the same time, renewing the expanded Child Tax Credit would benefit families across the country — it already cut child poverty by 46% in its initial form. These and other initiatives can help create a better future, stem the flow to hunger and homelessness, and finally create the ladders out of poverty that the road to equity demands.
— Willie Dickerson/Snohomish, Washington
SUPPORT DOMESTIC ABUSE SURVIVORS
In recent years, domestic violence incidents and deaths have risen in Colorado, and abusers continue to find new ways to maintain power and control over their partners. At the same time, Denver’s housing costs have continued to rise while wage growth remains stagnant, resulting in a volatile housing market. This has sparked important conversations about barriers faced by survivors of domestic violence when they try to leave an abusive relationship. Finding safe, affordable housing is among the biggest of these barriers. Since 2018, SafeHouse Denver has offered an Extended Stay Program (ESP), which provides survivors with rent-free, fully furnished apartments in a safe environment. The program offers independent living and gives survivors extra time to find long-term housing and other necessary resources for stability. As a student at DU Law seeking to engage with the community, I was drawn to SafeHouse’s mission, so I’ve been volunteering with them ever since. SafeHouse holds an annual food tasting fundraiser, Sampling for Hope, to support the ESP and raise awareness. As a member of the planning committee since 2019, I’m looking forward to this year’s event, which will be held on June 8 at Mile High Station. Please join us for delicious food, a silent auction and a mission-based program — all to support survivors. Tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/SamplingforHope.
— Misty Schlabaugh/Denver
