Charleston Reporter

A new initiative called Gateway to Housing has officially launched in the Charleston region. The program connects property owners and managers with residents at risk of homelessness. It is presented with a new brand, a dedicated website, and expanded community training. Neighbors Together is the key organization leading the effort, with support from various local partnerships. Charleston County invested $100,000 in the program, while the Charleston Metro Chamber’s Regional Housing Coalition helped in early development stages.

The program uses a low-barrier housing model, the first in South Carolina. It aims to make housing accessible to those facing challenges like previous evictions or financial difficulties. By collaborating with landlords, the program offers affordable housing, financial incentives, tenant support services, and long-term leasing options.

Craig Logan, Executive Housing Fellow at the Charleston Metro Chamber, expressed positive expectations for the initiative. “The Gateway to Housing creates an opportunity for private landlords to assist in the housing need in the tri-county area. This program has been wildly successful in other parts of the country, like Nashville, TN and I am excited to support the program as it is getting off the ground. I know many families who deal with past evictions and other barriers that prevent them from obtaining housing in our region. This program will be a game changer in filling a need in the homelessness space in our area.”

Gateway to Housing is expected to impact the Charleston area’s housing situation with Neighbors Together as its lead organization.

For those interested in the Regional Housing Coalition’s efforts, contact Craig at clogan@charlestonchamber.org. More details on Gateway to Housing are available at gatewaytohousingchs.org.