By Julie Cieniawski | Point of View
Housing shouldn’t be a luxury item but for many, it’s become one. I want to work with you to change that. Housing ensures people have a safe place to escape the natural elements and place to fulfill their ambitions.
Housing also provides an opportunity to develop a sense of belonging to something greater than self, a community. Though the dwellings can look different depending on many demographic factors, the function of neighborhoods is beneficial to the health of our local communities. Affordable housing remains a critical concern throughout Maricopa County.
I am running for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to properly address this issue that affects our neighborhoods and our future.
As a public-school teacher, leader, and a volunteer with many local organizations, I have witnessed firsthand the impact housing insecurities have on families, individuals, the elderly, and young emerging adults desiring to have a safe place to call home. The strain created by housing affordability impacts our economy, healthcare, education, justice system, and the future success of our nation at-large.
I have the privilege of serving, as the vice-chair of the board of Family Promise of Greater Phoenix.
With over two decades of investing in our communities, FPGP is working diligently to support families (and their pets) in need of housing that includes prevention, shelter, and stabilization to build a brighter future one family at a time. The work of FPGP has moved forward through a commitment to serving those in need. This is accomplished through the support of partnerships that include 50+ congregations of all faiths, the work of many volunteers, and numerous financial gifts from generous organizations and personal donors.
This year alone, the FPGP is projecting to support over 300 families with shelter and prevention services and is about to open the doors to our first Family Promise Village, an exciting transitional housing community specifically designed to meet the needs of low-income families. This is an example of the progress we are capable of when we work together and address complex challenges through creativity, collaboration, and civility.
I am running for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to solve the real problems that our communities face, like housing insecurities. Meaningful action takes political will. I will continue to learn about our issues and address them with solutions. When we work together for the common good, we all win!
I’d be honored to receive your vote.
Editor’s Note: Ms. Cieniawski is a candidate for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors this November
