A Year of Progress and Advocacy: SWFHC's Enforcement and Education Achievements in 22-23
Looking back on 2023, we're proud of our notable accomplishments, particularly in our enforcement and education/outreach initiatives. SWFHC processed an impressive 795 calls. A significant portion of these calls, precisely 564, were related to landlord-tenant issues, highlighting the ongoing need for support in this area.
Notably, 86% of these callers identified as low or extremely low-income, underscoring the critical role SWFHC plays in supporting the most vulnerable members of our community. Our fair housing intake processed 68 cases covering various housing concerns. From these intakes, a considerable number, 40, were related to apartment complexes, followed by issues with private owners, management companies, mobile homes, and more. This distribution reflects the varied housing challenges faced across our community, and our intake breakdown tells an important story.
We saw 22 cases concerning race and a significant 39 related to disability issues, among others. Each case is a step toward a more equitable housing environment, and our commitment to addressing these issues remains steadfast.
In total, we filed 11 complaints, with the majority concerning disability rights. Other complaints addressed national origin, familial status, problematic PHA waitlist policies, and even sexual orientation.
Education and Outreach in Arizona
In the realm of education and outreach, SWFHC has made remarkable strides. Over the past year, we conducted a total of 121 classes, presentations, or trainings, ensuring that our message of fair housing rights and responsibilities reached every corner of the state. With 79 virtual and 40 in-person events, we catered to diverse preferences and needs, ensuring that our educational outreach was accessible to all.
Looking Ahead with Hope and Determination
The past year's achievements are just the beginning. As we move forward, we do so with the knowledge that our efforts are making a real difference in the lives of Arizonans. In a significant win for disability rights and fair housing, we obtained a permanent injunction against WG Scottsdale LLC, d/b/a Atria Sierra Pointe. Following a unanimous jury verdict, this landmark decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against housing discrimination. The court ruling mandates comprehensive changes to ensure effective communication and accommodation for disabled individuals.
We're not just enforcing fair housing laws; we're educating, empowering, and advocating for a future where everyone has equal access to housing, irrespective of their background.
