CoAction Launches ‘Embrace’ Campaign to Transform Affordable Housing in Northwest Indiana

CoAction, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing community flourishing through affordable housing and essential support services, is pleased to announce the launch of its "Embrace" campaign. This initiative seeks to unite residents, businesses, and community leaders to address the pressing housing needs of 252 families in Northwest Indiana who currently lack access to safe and secure housing.

The campaign is founded on three core principles to help residents struggling with housing insecurity:

• Embrace Community: CoAction strengthens community support by partnering with local organizations to deliver resources like rental and utility assistance, educational workshops, and wellness programs. For example, its meal program provided over 245,000 meals to individuals in need this year, and wellness programs engaged 1,313 people in health-focused activities, offering vital support for the community's well-being.
• Embrace Stability: CoAction offers programs such as job training and a matched savings initiative to foster long-term financial security, which empowers families to move from temporary housing into homeownership. The non-profit awarded $36,000 in matched savings funding this year alone to help individuals build financial foundations for a stable future. Through financial literacy workshops and ongoing mentoring, individuals facing housing instability gain the skills and support needed to achieve lasting stability and economic resilience.
• Embrace Home: CoAction addresses the urgent housing shortage by developing affordable housing projects that include supportive services tailored to each resident's needs. The organization’s projects range from emergency housing and rental support to permanent housing solutions, ensuring every family has a safe and supportive place to call home.

"A home represents more than mere physical space; it serves as a cornerstone for stability, security, and a sense of belonging," said Jen Trowbridge, CEO of CoAction.  "With over 10% of the local population living below the poverty line and an alarming decrease in affordable housing options, our campaign serves as a call for our community to open our arms and mobilize resources to transform lives."

Jordan Stanfill, Chief Housing Officer, remarked, "One of the strengths of CoAction is our comprehensive approach to housing. We encompass the entire spectrum, including street outreach, emergency housing, and long-term solutions such as permanent rental housing, supportive housing, and homeownership opportunities facilitated by our matched savings program. We are enthusiastic about our goal to develop nearly 300 housing units across Northwest Indiana, which will provide consistent, stable housing and necessary support."

For Russ, a resident of Prominence Commons—a CoAction property dedicated to affordable housing—CoAction's programs have been a lifeline. "I tried for a long, long time. I've been on disability since 1996. Finding affordable housing was really hard," he shared. "After the pandemic, I was notified by CoAction and Prominence Commons that they had something available for me. It's been life-changing for me compared to what I had before. It's comforting to know that I'll never have to worry about losing my home because this is my home." Russ now saves enough to cover daily expenses, including supplies for his dog, Arlo, and finds purpose through volunteer work around the property. "I volunteer by doing little things like picking weeds and picking up garbage. It gives me an opportunity to meet the other residents and introduce myself," he added.

As part of the campaign, CoAction has released its 2024 Impact Report, highlighting the organization's recent accomplishments, including expanded housing initiatives, increased support services, and community partnerships that have strengthened its mission. The report outlines how contributions have been utilized to address local housing needs and improve residents' quality of life across Northwest Indiana.

The organization has set an ambitious objective to construct 100 affordable housing units by 2025, addressing the acute housing shortage affecting low-income families, seniors, and other vulnerable groups within Northwest Indiana. 

A matching gift of $20,000 from a consortium of generous donors will ensure that every contribution has double the impact, supporting housing solutions and vital services for individuals and families in need.
For further details and to view the impact report or donate, please visit bit.ly/Embrace_Giving.