Hearts and Home Sharing Program is social connection program solving several community issues

The Hearts and Home Sharing Program has made more than 100 matches since implementing their shared housing program 6 years ago. Many Florida residents are feeling the financial crunch as rents and housing cost spiral out of control.

Like many programs available through the volunteer organization National Shared Housing Resource Center, participants in Osceola County's "Hearts and Home Sharing" program are vetted to assure a good fit for everyone.

“As most Central Florida residents are experiencing both rental and cost of living increases, this has prompted a demand for innovative housing solutions for lower income individuals,” OCOA Vice-President of Housing Angelica Rodriguez said, “Luckily, Home Sharing has emerged as a crucial resource for residents, not just in the state of Florida, but across our country. This option is empowering seniors, individuals with disabilities, working professionals, and those who simply cannot find affordable housing to maintain independence by sharing costs.”

The arrangement enables two or more individuals to share housing for mutual benefit, whether it be financial, social, or simply to support safety and security needs.

For homeowners, requirements include completing a Home Sharing application through the OCOA; submitting a copy of their driver’s license, social security card, proof of current income, proof of home ownership, or, if they do not own, a letter from the landlord stating a sublet is allowed.

Once the homeowner’s application is completed, the Council will inspect the residence to make sure it is in acceptable condition. The criteria include a healthy, safe, clean, and friendly environment. Minimally, the bedroom for rent needs to be of ample size and private. A private bathroom is preferred, but not required."

Programs like these offer a solid solution to a variety of current issues facing elders throughout the country.

• Skyrocketing rents are forcing our community members onto the streets. 
• Elevating income as taxes rise for low or moderate income homeowners assures housing stock remains in good repair
• Homemates help prevent isolation and loneliness which has grown to be a public health crisis, particularly in rural settings. 
• Assistance and monitoring well being by housemates can alleviate concerns family members have for their loved ones.

The U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has made it his mission to address the problem of isolation. And no wonder-with statistics that prove loneliness contributes SIGNIFICANTLY to a variety of health concerns.

We can all be part of the solution to this growing health crisis by finding ways to create and welcome community, reconsidering what being neighborly does to strengthen community.

Here are three key ways individuals, organizations, and governments can work together to strengthen social infrastructure in local communities:

• Design the built environment to promote social connection
• Establish and scale community connection programs
• Invest in local institutions that bring people together

Let's find ways to rebuild strong social networks for everyone in our communities. By filling our empty bedrooms with people, not things, we take a step closer to reinvigorating our communities and their residents.