Groups of housing activists, legislators, and Chester County commissioners met on the issue of affordable housing in the region, writes Michael P. Rellahan for The Daily Local News.  

The gathering in West Goshen aimed to raise awareness and foster discussion on potential solutions to the housing crisis. In the past five years, Chester County has lost more than 5,500 affordable units (under $1,500 per month).  

In addition, the cost of living is 19.6 percent higher than the national average with themedian house value of just under $502,000.

“We need studios for extremely low-income folks,” said Kris Keller, an attendee. “We need three-bedroom apartments for single moms. We need starter houses for young families. We need accessible units for elders and people differently abled. We need options in the $350  to $850 per month.” 

Cheryl Miles of Kennett Area Community Services highlighted the importance of long-term assistance. 

“[People] need assistance to not just move in, but to be able to maintain a stable housing experience,” she said.  

Read more about how Chester County activists are advocating for affordable housing in the region in The Daily Local News.  

Two years ago, funding created new opportunity for housing residents in Chester County.