Social group rallies for affordable housing in Bloomington-Normal

Posted on November 10, 2021

*The group is calling for local government and community leaders to use federal stimulus funds to build more affordable housing. (Photo courtesy HOI ABC)*

BLOOMINGTON – Members of the Stand Up for Justice group held signs in front of the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts with hopes of bringing awareness to homelessness.

The organization says the existing affordable housing is at compacity. There are currently over 500 people on the section 8 wait list.

“We need a longer-term solution because the temporary shelters that are offered are just that temporary. It’s transitional and doesn’t really solve the problem of homelessness. there has to be a place for people to move to” says Julie Prandi, Stand Up for Social Justice organizer.

The group is calling for local government and community leaders to use federal stimulus funds to build more affordable housing. They also propose zoning laws be adjusted to permit more mixed income housing.

Bloomington Housing Authority provides public housing to 600 residents but there are still families with children living in temporary housing.

The organization is calling for those living in temporary housing to be given a permanent living option.

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