Since launching the Resident Empowerment Program (REP) in September 2018, Hope Solutions residents have hit the ground running. REP is an employment training and advocacy program where Hope Solutions residents learn to amplify their voices to advocate for permanent affordable housing in Contra Costa County. Hope Solutions has facilitated voter education courses at three apartment sites, provided two workshops on civic engagement topics, and attended over ten community events related to housing policy. Residents now feel more confident in their ability to make educated voting decisions and empowered to make a difference in their cities and the county through civic engagement. Here are the recent highlights of our REPs in Action:
Night Walk: Antioch
On Friday, April 12th, Los Medanos Village Apartments (LMV) residents joined the Central and East Contra Costa County Ceasefire Night Walk Antioch to walk against gun violence. Recent gunfire near LMV motivated Hope Solutions residents to raise their signs and voices to promote love and peace in the streets.
2019 Housing California Advocacy Day
On Monday, April 15th, Hope Solutions REP representatives walked the halls of the State Capitol with Housing California to discuss important bills regarding homelessness and housing with legislators and staff. Participants began the day with a gathering to review legislative priorities and how to best spread the message. Prominent issues at this year’s event included ending income discrimination and investment in affordable housing.
May Day Rally
Hope Solutions REPs attended the Concord May Day Rally focused on keeping families housed. Hope Solutions residents at Lakeside Apartments were excited to march to raise their voices to urge Concord City Council to take action on housing.