Community rallies to combat Greensboro's eviction crisis

During a recent city council meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the rising eviction rates in Greensboro, which rank among the highest in the nation. Susan Burkholder, representing the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), highlighted the organization's ongoing \"Keep Gate City Housed\" campaign, which aims to address housing instability exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Burkholder noted that the campaign has engaged citizens in eviction court watch initiatives and gathered over 775 pledge cards in support of increased rental assistance.

Burkholder expressed gratitude for the council's decision to allocate funding for housing support in the city budget, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to tackle the housing crisis. She inquired about the process for distributing these funds and how the community could stay informed about developments.

Samuel Hawkins, another speaker, echoed these sentiments, stressing the broader implications of housing insecurity on families and children. He called for a concerted effort from elected officials and community leaders to ensure that assistance reaches those in need efficiently. Hawkins underscored the importance of community solidarity, stating that the initiative to keep residents housed is a collective responsibility that requires active participation from all sectors of society.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing recognition of the urgent need for effective housing solutions in Greensboro, as community leaders and residents rally together to support vulnerable families facing eviction.