Single women—particularly single women of color—are far more likely than single men to be severely cost-burdened by housing.
Each week is a battle to ensure that she has enough to pay rent, settle bills and feed her family. Mitchell spends 95 percent of her income on rent, far exceeding the 30 percent threshold that defines someone as being cost-burdened by housing. Occasionally, a child support check provides temporary relief, allowing her to buy groceries and other necessities, but she cannot rely on it consistently.Paying the rent or buying necessities.
The lack of affordable childcare or a national paid leave policy also disproportionately impacts women. Women are more likely than men to assume the role of unpaid caregiver for their children or loved ones. Taking on these roles results in more time off from work, which cuts into their potential earnings and makes it significantly harder for women to achieve financial stability.
Frida Villalobos, the communication director for Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, is a single mom to a 7-year-old. The two sit on their front steps in Houston on May 6, 2020. Mitchell understands all too well the consequences of an eviction. A few years ago, she and her family were evicted—a traumatic experience that marked the beginning of a period of instability for her and her children. Chantelle now lives in fear that one missed rent payment could result in another eviction, upending her family’s life once more.
Despite the success of this program, funds have since run out or expired. Passing a permanent program would be an important step toward addressing our affordability crisis and reducing homelessness, a win-win scenario that benefits all of us. Increasing tenant protections will also right-size the balance of power between tenants and landlords, increasing housing security for women, LGBTQIA+ people and families.