A quality affordable home is a prescription for good health. It has been linked to prevention of long-term health problems and promotes healthy, productive lives.
But when a family’s housing situation is unaffordable and unstable, chances to lead a healthy life dwindle rapidly.
“Children in families that have been behind on rent within the last year are more likely to be in poor health and have an increased risk of developmental delays than children whose families are stably housed. The mothers in these families also have a much higher likelihood of experiencing symptoms of depression and being in poor health than mothers living in stable housing.” Children’s Health Watch, Behind Closed Doors, 2011.
