| Beyond their significant impact on human
health, housing-related health hazards have a broad, adverse impact on communities,
physically, economically, and socially. The substandard housing conditions
that typically result in significant health hazards, and the effects of
exposures to these hazards, contribute directly and indirectly to community
blight, economic hardship, reduced capacity of residents, and diminished
public safety. Conversely, policies and programs that successfully address
such hazards can strengthen communities in far-reaching ways.
Housing-related environmental health hazards constitute clear
and compelling examples of environmental injustice. The burden
of housing-related health risks falls unfairly on communities
of color because exposure to hazards is directly related to
substandard housing conditions that are most prevalent in
lower-income communities and communities of color.
The unhealthy and inadequate housing options available to many families
stem from the profound shortage of affordable housing across the country.
Monthly housing costs grow 5-15 percent annually, while the minimum wage
has remained at $5.15 since 1997. In 2003, the national average wage needed
to make the national average rent payment was $14.66—almost triple
the minimum wage.
Revitalizing communities requires improving the availability and quality
of affordable housing and ensuring that all people have access to housing
that is safe from environmental hazards.
The wide variations in risks and circumstances among different communities
across the country require solutions that are community-based.
Help us work for healthy affordable housing for all—make
your tax-deductible contribution to the Alliance today! |
