Urgent Amended Joint Petition to Address the Housing Crisis in Worcester

Worcester, [August 20, 2023] — A coalition of diverse local nonprofit organizations, each dedicated to the betterment of the Worcester community, has united to address the alarming housing crisis that is currently affecting the city. The undersigned organizations, including Pleasant Street Neighborhood Network Center, Worcester Socialist Alternative, Worcester Community Fridges, F.A.M. Jam! Event Group, Mass Spring Group, The Village Worcester, and Pa’Lante Worcester, have come together to voice their collective concerns and demand immediate action.

The coalition’s joint petition emphasizes the urgent need for affordable housing solutions and highlights the escalating incidence of homelessness in Worcester. The organizations are unified in their unwavering commitment to tackling this critical issue, despite their differing missions and goals.

“At the heart of a vibrant community lies the availability of safe and affordable housing,” the coalition states in their petition. “Our shared commitment to this principle brings us together, urging the City Council to take crucial steps to address this crisis.”

Key points outlined in the petition include:

1. Acknowledge the Crisis: The coalition calls upon the City Council to formally recognize the housing crisis as an urgent matter within Worcester. This recognition is seen as a pivotal step in demonstrating the City’s dedication to addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

2. Declare a Local State of Emergency: The coalition implores the City Council to collaborate with the City Manager to declare a local state of emergency concerning the housing crisis. This declaration would underscore the gravity of the situation and expedite the allocation of resources, thereby facilitating collaboration among stakeholders and the implementation of timely intervention measures.

The urgency of the situation is emphasized by the significant number of individuals and families affected by the shortage of accessible affordable housing. The coalition firmly believes that their collective efforts can yield innovative and compassionate solutions that will have a positive impact on the lives of Worcester residents.

“We appeal for the opportunity to present our joint petition before the City Council during an upcoming meeting,” the coalition stated. “Our intention is to stress the urgency of prompt action and foster an inclusive discussion aimed at finding viable solutions to this pressing issue.”

The coalition’s member organizations include a wide range of groups with distinct missions, but they share a common goal: to ensure a brighter future for Worcester by addressing its housing crisis head-on. The joint petition reflects their dedication to making a difference in the lives of the community’s most vulnerable members.

As Worcester faces this housing crisis, the unity and collaboration of these nonprofit organizations stand as a beacon of hope. The petition’s call for swift action and thoughtful intervention demonstrates the power of collective advocacy in the pursuit of a better, more inclusive future for the city and its residents.

Pa’Lante is taking a stand against the housing crisis in Worcester, and we invite you to join us on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at 6:30 PM at City Hall, 455 Main St. downtown. Our call to action aims to address the pressing issue of housing affordability and availability within our community. Your participation is crucial as we discuss strategies, share insights, and collaborate on meaningful solutions to alleviate this crisis. Let’s come together and make our voices heard for a more inclusive and equitable housing landscape in Worcester.

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