Ready for Hope provides services to alleviate housing instability and promote sustainable communities by acquiring undervalued or foreclosed properties, renovating them to meet safety and quality standards, and providing affordable rental housing to individuals and families in need. Our organization is dedicated to transforming neglected properties into safe and welcoming homes, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for our tenants while contributing to the revitalization of neighborhoods. 

 

In Kern County, the struggle with housing instability is compounded by the limited availability of affordable housing options, despite proactive measures taken to address the issue. As of 2023, around 25,000 families experience housing instability, while over 5,000 families remain on the waiting list for Section 8 housing vouchers, which serve as a vital resource for low-income households seeking affordable housing options (Kern County Community Housing and Development, 2023; Kern County Housing Authority, 2023). 

 

In an effort to combat this vulnerability, other local programs have facilitated the construction of approximately 1,200 new affordable housing units during the same period. These developments were primarily funded through initiatives such as the California Housing Finance Agency and local partnerships aimed at increasing affordable housing stock (Kern County Community Development & Neighborhood Services, 2023). 

 

Despite this progress, the quantity of new affordable housing units does not meet the needs of the housing insatiable in our community.  

 

As of the end of 2023 there were about 1,800 foreclosed properties in the area however, many of the foreclosed homes may not be suitable for occupancy or accessible to those dependent on vouchers. This situation underscores the urgent need for targeted strategies that not only support new construction but also ensure the accessibility and revitalization of existing homes for families affected by housing instability in Kern County.

 

By utilizing the existing properties, Ready for Hope can decrease the time it takes for affordable housing units to be available to those who need them.  At the same time we are also supporting the Kern County Infill Development plan under the Advancement Project California.  Addressing the urgent need for affordable housing and fostering community engagement, Ready for Hope creates a positive impact on the lives of those we serve and contributes to the overall well-being of our community. We are not just providing shelter, we are building a foundation of hope and stability for those who need it most.