Representative Paul Mark has spent his career fighting for the people of Western Massachusetts. His commitment to this work is grounded in his blue-collar background. Paul understands and has lived the same challenges that many in our community are facing today. He also knows firsthand the power that opportunities like higher education, a union job, and access to good healthcare can have.
Housing needs to be considered a Human Right. Right now, we are facing a housing crisis in Western Massachusetts and throughout the Commonwealth. Massachusetts has some of the highest costs of buying or renting compared to the rest of the nation. The median sale price for a single-family home in Massachusetts is $485,000! In addition, there aren’t enough affordable options–or options at all–and that prohibits young people and families from living here. We also know that Black people and LGBTQ+ people disproportionately face housing discrimination and are more likely to become homeless. This is unacceptable.
Investments in emergency housing and shelter, public housing options, and fully funding supportive housing services and first time homeowner programs in our state budget are a few ways we can address this issue and ensure equity in the process.