The Unhealthy Truth & Section 8 in the United States of America — Real Estate

The housing crisis is undoubtedly real. When I mention housing, I'm referring to section 8 and public programs for low-income individuals to secure housing. Today, I want to share my own story. I was fortunate to have a supportive living coach who had my information and always looked for section 8 openings. In early March 2015, she informed me that she had entered my name into a lottery for potential housing selection. Yes, a lottery. In my view, no one should have to rely on luck in such a critical matter.

Imagine being a child in foster care. Now, picture being a child in foster care at the age of 12, permanently disabled – that was my reality. In one of my initial placements, I was placed with a foster family that solely spoke French, making communication challenging. However, even more distressing was the fact that my disability (I am now a woman in the prime of her life, living with cerebral palsy and relying on a wheelchair for mobility) left my voice unheard. My opinions were disregarded, and I felt invisible, leading to a life-threatening...