7/15/22 – Gregory Hart

Welcome. Today, we’re delving into a pressing and often heart-wrenching issue within our community — youth homelessness and the search for affordable housing solutions in Aurora. Your journey from personal hardship to advocacy provides a unique lens on this topic. Could you share with us your story?

Thank you for this opportunity. My journey into the heart of the affordable housing crisis, especially as it pertains to youth, began with my own experiences of homelessness. As a teenager, I found myself without a home due to a range of family issues. The streets of Aurora, from the bustling areas around the Aurora Mall to the quieter, suburban outskirts, became both my refuge and my challenge.

During this period, I struggled not just with finding a place to sleep, but with the broader implications of homelessness: maintaining my education, finding work, and simply trying to see a future for myself. It was through the kindness of community organizations and the support of affordable housing programs that I managed to find stability.

Driven by my experiences, I’ve dedicated myself to advocating for affordable housing solutions, especially for young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. I’ve engaged in community discussions, participated in meetings that felt as though they could have been held at Aurora’s city hall, and worked with local nonprofits to address this issue head-on.

Your story is incredibly moving and highlights the broader systemic challenges facing youth in search of stable housing in Aurora. How do these personal challenges reflect wider issues in our city’s approach to affordable housing?

My experiences are a reflection of the systemic barriers that many young people face in securing stable, affordable housing. One of the most significant issues is the scarcity of resources specifically geared towards youth experiencing homelessness. While there are shelters and temporary housing options, there’s a gap in long-term solutions that address the unique needs of young individuals trying to gain independence and build a future.

Aurora, like many growing cities, is grappling with the balance between development and the preservation of affordable housing stock. The focus often leans towards market-rate housing and commercial development, with less attention given to the affordable housing that can serve as a lifeline for vulnerable populations, including youth.

Moreover, there’s a need for policies that not only increase the quantity of affordable housing but also ensure accessibility to supportive services like education, job training, and mental health care. The discussions I’ve been a part of, some of which could easily have taken place in city hall, underline the importance of a holistic approach to housing policy — one that considers the diverse needs of Aurora’s youth.

Given the complexities of youth homelessness and the need for comprehensive housing solutions, what approaches do you believe are essential for Aurora?

Addressing youth homelessness and the broader affordable housing crisis in Aurora requires a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes immediate needs while planning for sustainable, long-term solutions.

Firstly, there’s a critical need to increase funding and support for programs specifically targeted at young people experiencing homelessness. This includes transitional housing programs that offer not just a place to stay, but a pathway to independence through education, mentorship, and employment support.

Second, Aurora can benefit from policies that encourage the development of affordable housing units dedicated to young adults. By partnering with developers, leveraging vacant properties, and utilizing tax incentives, the city can foster the creation of spaces that meet the unique needs of this demographic.

Community engagement is also key. Empowering young people to share their experiences and ideas can lead to more effective, responsive policies. Whether through youth councils, participation in city hall meetings, or collaboration with local nonprofits, young voices should be at the forefront of discussions on affordable housing.

Lastly, there’s a need for greater collaboration between city agencies, schools, non-profits, and the private sector to address the root causes of youth homelessness. By working together, we can create a comprehensive support system that not only provides housing but also addresses educational disparities, mental health, and employment opportunities.

Looking to the future, what message do you hope to convey to city officials, developers, and the Aurora community about tackling youth homelessness through affordable housing initiatives?

The message I want to share is one of urgency, hope, and collective responsibility. Youth homelessness is not just a housing issue; it’s a community issue that affects the social fabric and future of Aurora.

To city officials, I urge a renewed focus on affordable housing policies that consider the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly young people. This includes not only creating more housing but also ensuring these solutions are integrated with services that support youth in their transition to independence.

Developers have an opportunity to contribute positively to our community by incorporating affordable units for young adults into their projects, investing in the future of our city’s residents.

To the broader Aurora community, I emphasize the importance of empathy and action. Supporting local initiatives, volunteering, and simply being aware of the challenges faced by homeless youth can make a significant difference. Together, we can create a supportive environment where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you for sharing your powerful story and for your dedication to advocating for youth affordable housing solutions in Aurora. Your efforts are a beacon of hope for many.

Thank you for the chance to discuss this critical issue. I remain hopeful that through dialogue, collaboration, and a shared commitment to our community’s youth, we can build a future where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing and the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Let’s continue to work together towards this goal, ensuring Aurora is a place where every young person can find a home and a community that supports them.