Last month, our Live Well Springfield Transforming Communities Initiative (TCI) Committee hosted a Housing Resource Fair at the Elias Brookings Elementary School, welcoming over 200 participants, including families, volunteers, vendors, and staff. The event was held in collaboration with our TCI-funded partners, ARISE for Social Justice,  Springfield No One Leaves,  Neighbor to Neighbor,  Way Finders,  and our dedicated Resident Advisors. We are proud that almost 50 organizations offering valuable information and resources to support a wide range of housing needs, from rental assistance and first-time homebuyer programs to shelter services and home modifications support, were present at the event. The Housing Resource Fair served as a powerful gathering point for community members at all stages of their housing journey. 

A resident that attended the event shared, “I didn’t know there was so many resources in housing, education, mental health organizations that help you.” Another attendee shared, “This fair was a blessing of knowledge, and I will use it in my outreach.” We also received great feedback from our vendors with one vendor sharing, “It is great seeing so many different resource vendors that are completely relevant to my work.” 

The TCI advisory committee was able to share their progress in our housing advocacy work, and due to the positive feedback provided by attendees, vendors, and volunteers, we plan to bring the Housing Resource Fair back again next year.