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July
2001
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The West: Housing costs take a big bite of SSI for many
we serve
A recent report by the Technical Assistance Collaborative
(TAC) and the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD)
illuminates serious problems for persons with disabilities
in their ability to find affordable housing. The report Priced
out in 2000: The crisis continues, details the housing
issues facing over 3 million non-elderly Americans receiving
Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The information covers
the entire nation, but reveals the West faces significant
challenges in affordable housing for persons on SSI (or anyone
with limited financial resources).
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Percent of SSI Benefits
Needed to Rent a 1BR Housing Unit
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| WICHE States |
|
| Alaska |
71.2% |
| Arizona |
97.2% |
| California |
99.5% |
| Colorado |
106.2% |
| Hawaii |
140.8% |
| Idaho |
67.1% |
| Montana |
73.0% |
| Nevada |
113.8% |
| New Mexico |
81.7% |
| North Dakota |
72.0% |
| Oregon |
99.5% |
| South Dakota |
75.6% |
| Utah |
95.7% |
| Washington |
103.5% |
| Wyoming |
72.7% |
| WICHE States Average |
91.3% |
| National Average |
98.2% |
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Source: Priced out in 2000: The
crisis continues by the Technical Assistance Collaborative
and the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities.
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While the West as a whole fared somewhat better than the nation,
the fact remains that finding affordable housing is a significant
challenge for most persons with limited financial resources,
and especially for persons with disabilities. The data provides
a strong foundation for housing advocacy. Three of the most
important components of recovery are housing, employment,
and quality care. Certainly, supporting recovery is made more
challenging by the lack of affordable housing. As the West
continues to sustain and enhance opportunities that support
consumer recovery, it will be essential to effectively address
housing issues.
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