I would like to encourage voters to support Proposition 1, the low-income housing levy that will create the Bellingham Home Fund. This fund would allow individuals and families that have limited income to have access to affordable housing. Bellingham has a low vacancy rate that continues to drive the cost of affordable apartments up. Therefore individuals making the minimum wage and trying to raise a family often cannot afford the high cost of renting an apartment, forcing them to live in crowded conditions with family or friends. There are many people that due to disabilities may never be able to work again. The disability benefits they receive do not cover the expenses of renting an apartment.

Housing should not be something that only the middle and upper class can afford. Housing is a key component to stability in work, home and community. The Bellingham Home Fund is a large step toward a healthier community.

Kristin Hill

Bellingam