Over 250 San Antonio residents gathered at Highlands High School for the city's 4th annual Housing in San Antonio event, a gathering designed to connect people to housing resources and support. According to the City of San Antonio's news release, the event supported Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones' 10-year Strategic Housing Implementation Plan, showcasing activities such as discussion sessions and providing direct access to housing assistance.
“Through the City's SHIP, we are making long-term investments in housing stability and affordability, strengthening our communities and stimulating economic development,” Mayor Ortiz Jones said, aimed at fostering housing affordability, as mentioned in the City's statement. The event displayed advances made under the SHIP, most notably that the City has already exceeded goals in six categories, such as preserving rental homes and the construction of housing for older adults, the latter seeing 358% of the initial target being met or in progress.
Featuring more than 50 resource tables, attendees at the Housing in San Antonio event could connect with various community services and organizations. "Everyone in San Antonio deserves access to affordable housing," District 3 Councilmember Phyllis Viagran expressed in a statement obtained by the City's same news release, emphasizing the importance of connecting communities to policies and resources tailored to their needs.
Adding family-friendly amenities, the event was also a hit for attendees of all ages, with the San Antonio Public Library hosting youth activities and complimentary food available. Progress under the SHIP was also highlighted, with news that approximately half of the City’s Permanent Supportive Housing goal is now either in progress or complete, boasting 477 PSH homes to its credit, according to information provided at the event.
Civic collaborations were showcased as well, as the event was held in partnership with Opportunity Home San Antonio, the San Antonio Housing Trust, and Bexar County. Banks such as Frost and Jefferson Bank also provided sponsorships. Educational elements like informational videos were featured to cover critical topics such as property tax assistance and renters' rights, while practical support was provided through services like ASL and Spanish interpretation, showing the event's comprehensive approach to housing issues, as per the City of San Antonio.
