Dayton Children’s Hospital Launches Unique Housing Initiative for Kinship Families
Dayton, Ohio – In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting kinship families, Dayton Children’s Hospital has announced plans to construct a million housing project designed to assist individuals raising children on behalf of relatives or friends who are unable to do so. This innovative program, which will consist of 26 three-bedroom rental units, is expected to be ready for occupancy by the end of 2024.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in addressing the unique challenges that kinship families face, particularly regarding housing stability. Jessica Salem, Executive Director of the Center for Health Equity at Dayton Children’s Hospital, emphasized the potential impact of this project by stating, “We’re excited to bring that kind of project to Dayton, and we’re really excited about what it’s going to do for the families that will live there.”
Funding for the project has been secured from a diverse array of sources, including city housing funds, federal COVID-19 relief resources, and support from Montgomery County. Additionally, the initiative received financial backing through the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Project Funding program. “The project really came together because we were able to pull funding from all of these different sources,” noted Salem, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the development.
Housing stability is a pressing concern for kinship families, many of whom deal with financial constraints. Salem illustrated this challenge by describing the situation of a typical grandparent who has recently retired and is now unexpectedly responsible for caring for additional children. “That can be a bit of a challenge,” she acknowledged.
Research shows that housing stability has a profound impact on children’s health and well-being. Salem pointed out that approximately 80% of a child’s health is influenced by factors beyond traditional health care settings, stating, “It is where kids live, learn, play, and where adults work.” This perspective reinforces the importance of safe, affordable housing as a fundamental component of public health.
The newly built homes will be conveniently located near local schools, parks, and Dayton Children’s Hospital, enhancing accessibility for the families residing there. In addition to the residential units, the project will feature a community room designed to host various educational programs and resources for residents. “We’re really seeing an opportunity for different organizations to come in and give classes and other learning opportunities for families on-site through that community space,” Salem added.
Looking ahead, the hospital anticipates recruiting eligible families to move into the new development by the end of 2025. The property will be managed by Wallet Communities, which is responsible for ensuring a supportive living environment for all residents.
This ambitious housing initiative positions Dayton Children’s Hospital as a leader in addressing the needs of kinship families, setting a precedent for similar projects across the nation. By creating a supportive community, the hospital not only aims to improve the quality of life for these families but also to foster a healthier environment for children in their care.
