More and more people are renting rooms rather than apartments. With the price of rentals, it is almost impossible for young families to save up an adequate down payment for their first home, let alone put money aside for education and other emergency needs. These residents deserve affordable housing or they may be forced to relocate elsewhere. Moreover, without the services of these workers, cities and the county would be crippled since unemployment is now at an all time low. According to recent headlines in the Mercury News , there are now approximately 20,000 homeless in Santa Clara County.
Statistics show one in five residents fear becoming homeless themselves.
The prices are high and out of reach for most. The continuing influx of well-healed newcomers to Silicon Valley and other California areas are raising questions about the future of housing costs and availability of housing for our children throughout the state. The Honorable Zoe Lofgren, Congresswoman, 16th District, D-San Jose. According a previous Housing Symposium in Silicon Valley, without the support of Silicon Valley leaders, the shortage of affordable housing here will undoubtedly worsen and likely threaten the economic boom. Search for ways to make more sites available for housing, both market and affordable housing.