KINGSTON – Mayor Steven Noble, Family of Woodstock, and the Kingston Housing Task Force have released the results of a public survey that gauged interest in expanding the HomeShare Woodstock program to Kingston.
Last year, Family of Woodstock launched HomeShare Woodstock, a program that connects home providers and home seekers, allowing each to remain in their communities while offering a mutually beneficial, affordable housing solution. After an intensive matching process, HomeShare helps home providers gain extra income and receive help with tasks while providing home seekers an affordable rental for someone in the community.
HomeShare Woodstock is the state’s first free home sharing program outside New York City. The program currently has six successful matches benefitting 14 people.
Results of the recent public interest survey, which can be found here, indicate a positive response to bringing a homesharing program to the City of Kingston. The survey was distributed through various nonprofit organizations, community groups, and faith organizations. Respondents totaled 131 with 100 expressing support of a home sharing program as a solution for Kingston’s housing emergency.
“Here in Kingston, we are always looking for creative ways to provide enough affordable housing to keep up with demand,” said Mayor Noble. “We believe the HomeShare program could provide much-needed housing. The recent public interest survey showed local residents felt that a home sharing program would also be beneficial in helping seniors to age in place while receiving much-needed additional income. Other advantages of this program could be alleviating loneliness, providing security, and improving overall mental health.”
A steering committee will be formed to determine the next steps. Kingston residents interested in serving on the steering committee to launch the program should fill out this interest form by May 19. Residents may also contact homesharekingston@familyofwoodstockinc.org.
