In a recent report published by the Kent County Health Department, housing has been identified as the top health concern for residents in the area. The department releases these assessments every three years, and this year’s report was over 160 pages long and based on feedback from more than 5,000 county residents. According to Maris Brummel, a public health epidemiologist with the county, housing was the most frequently mentioned issue in the feedback.
Residents expressed concerns about both affordable housing and displacement from their current homes. The assessment revealed that one-third of county residents live in unaffordable housing, meaning they pay more than 30% of their income on housing. Rent costs have increased by 36% from 2020 to 2023, disproportionately impacting renters. Additionally, more Black and Hispanic residents reported being unable to afford rent or mortgage payments in the past year.
Brummel emphasized how important it is for individuals to have stable housing for their health. Having safe and secure living conditions helps people focus on other aspects of their well-being, reducing stress levels and improving overall health outcomes. Furthermore, exposure to environmental pollutants like lead can negatively affect mental and physical health.
While housing was the primary concern raised by residents, access to insurance and medical care were also highlighted as significant issues. Immigrants and LGBTQ+ identified residents reported difficulties accessing healthcare due to language barriers or discrimination. Many residents also mentioned struggles with accessing healthy foods; nearly one in five individuals stated they had trouble affording nutritious food or any food at all in the past year.
The full report of the Community Health Needs Assessment is available online for further review.
In conclusion, according to a new Community Health Needs Assessment published by Kent County Health Department, housing is a top concern for local residents’ health needs.
The department’s report highlights that one-third of county residents live in unaffordable housing that costs them more than 30% of their income on rent.
Rent costs have increased by 36% since 2020 disproportionately affecting renters.
Moreover, Black and Hispanic residents reported having difficulty paying rent or mortgage payments last year.
Maris Brummel emphasizes that having stable housing is essential for good health as it enables individuals to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
While affordable housing was the primary concern raised by residents, access to insurance and medical care were also highlighted as significant issues.
Immigrants and LGBTQ+ identified residents reported difficulties accessing healthcare due to language barriers or discrimination.
