CoAction

CoAction Launches ‘Embrace’ Campaign to Transform Affordable Housing in Northwest Indiana
Northwest Indiana – CoAction, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing community flourishing
through affordable housing and essential support services, is pleased to announce the launch of its
"Embrace" campaign. This initiative seeks to unite residents, businesses, and community leaders to
address the pressing housing needs of 252 families in Northwest Indiana who currently lack access to safe
and secure housing.
The campaign is founded on three core principles to help residents struggling with housing insecurity:
● Embrace Community: CoAction strengthens community support by partnering with local
organizations to deliver resources like rental and utility assistance, educational workshops, and
wellness programs. For example, its meal program provided over 245,000 meals to individuals in
need this year, and wellness programs engaged 1,313 people in health-focused activities, offering
vital support for the community's well-being.
● Embrace Stability: CoAction offers programs such as job training and a matched savings initiative
to foster long-term financial security, which empowers families to move from temporary housing into
homeownership. The non-profit awarded $36,000 in matched savings funding this year alone to help
individuals build financial foundations for a stable future. Through financial literacy workshops and
ongoing mentoring, individuals facing housing instability gain the skills and support needed to
achieve lasting stability and economic resilience.
● Embrace Home: CoAction addresses the urgent housing shortage by developing affordable
housing projects that include supportive services tailored to each resident's needs. The organization’s
projects range from emergency housing and rental support to permanent housing solutions, ensuring
every family has a safe and supportive place to call home.
"A home represents more than mere physical space; it serves as a cornerstone for stability, security, and a
sense of belonging," said Jen Trowbridge, CEO of CoAction. "With over 10% of the local population
living below the poverty line and an alarming decrease in affordable housing options, our campaign
serves as a call for our community to open our arms and mobilize resources to transform lives."
Jordan Stanfill, Chief Housing Officer, remarked, "One of the strengths of CoAction is our
comprehensive approach to housing. We encompass the entire spectrum, including street outreach,
emergency housing, and long-term solutions such as permanent rental housing, supportive housing, and
homeownership opportunities facilitated by our matched savings program. We are enthusiastic about our
goal to develop nearly 300 housing units across Northwest Indiana, which will provide consistent, stable
housing and necessary support."

For Russ, a resident of Prominence Commons—a CoAction property dedicated to affordable
housing—CoAction's programs have been a lifeline. "I tried for a long, long time. I've been on disability
since 1996. Finding affordable housing was really hard," he shared. "After the pandemic, I was notified
by CoAction and Prominence Commons that they had something available for me. It's been life-changing
for me compared to what I had before. It's comforting to know that I'll never have to worry about losing
my home because this is my home." Russ now saves enough to cover daily expenses, including supplies
for his dog, Arlo, and finds purpose through volunteer work around the property. "I volunteer by doing
little things like picking weeds and picking up garbage. It gives me an opportunity to meet the other
residents and introduce myself," he added.
As part of the campaign, CoAction has released its 2024 Impact Report, highlighting the organization's
recent accomplishments, including expanded housing initiatives, increased support services, and
community partnerships that have strengthened its mission. The report outlines how contributions have
been utilized to address local housing needs and improve residents' quality of life across Northwest
Indiana.
The organization has set an ambitious objective to construct 100 affordable housing units by 2025,
addressing the acute housing shortage affecting low-income families, seniors, and other vulnerable groups
within Northwest Indiana.
A matching gift of $20,000 from a consortium of generous donors will ensure that every contribution has
double the impact, supporting housing solutions and vital services for individuals and families in need.
For further details and to view the impact report or donate, please visit bit.ly/Embrace_Giving.