Tackling Asthma Through Housing Advocacy in Greensboro

Did you know that poor housing conditions can profoundly impact health? One Greensboro community proved just how much of a difference collective action and advocacy can make. A recent Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article sheds light on the transformation of Avalon Trace apartments, once a hotspot for asthma-related emergencies, into a healthier, safer place under the new name, Cottage Gardens.

The Challenge at Avalon Trace

The Avalon Trace apartment complex was a major contributor to asthma-related emergency room visits in Greensboro’s Cottage Grove neighborhood, accounting for 20% of visits in the area. Residents faced appalling conditions, from mold and cockroach infestations to backed-up sewage and structural issues. These substandard living environments exacerbated asthma and other respiratory conditions, leaving vulnerable families trapped in a cycle of poor health and housing instability.

The Role of Greensboro Housing Coalition

The Greensboro Housing Coalition spearheaded the fight against these unacceptable conditions. Partnering with Cone Health and the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, the Coalition used data to identify asthma “hotspots,” with Avalon Trace being a key focus. But their efforts didn’t stop at research. They engaged the community, built trust with residents, and encouraged them to report housing code violations. This pressure campaign ultimately led to the sale of the complex to new developers who began upgrading the property and addressing health hazards.

A Model for Change

Thanks to the repairs, emergency department visits linked to asthma have significantly decreased. Residents now benefit from improved conditions, including better ventilation, new flooring, repaired plumbing, and safer living spaces. This transformation showcases the power of addressing health at its source—our homes.

The Greensboro Housing Coalition’s success lies in its grassroots approach. Josie Williams, the Coalition’s executive director, emphasized, “We’re working with those who have the lived experience. We don’t move until we have the decision-making of the residents.” This resident-first philosophy has been critical in making meaningful, lasting change.

How You Can Help

The work to ensure every Greensboro resident has a safe and healthy home is ongoing. You can be a part of this critical mission:

1. Advocate for Housing Stability: Speak up for policies that prioritize housing as a public health issue.
2. Support Local Organizations: Donate or volunteer with groups like the Greensboro Housing Coalition, who are driving change in our community.
3. Spread Awareness: Help your neighbors, friends, and family understand the connection between housing and health.

The transformation of Avalon Trace is more than a success story; it’s a blueprint for what’s possible when we address housing and health together. Read the full Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article here for more details, and join us in building a healthier Greensboro for everyone. Together, we can make safe and affordable housing a reality for all.