In Connecticut, the Paid Leave program reminds workers that they can receive income replacement if they need to take time off for their own serious health condition or to care for a family member with a serious health issue. These benefits help people continue to pay for their housing during difficult times.
A recent survey by DataHaven found that 12% of Connecticut adults struggled to pay for adequate housing last year, which is up from 10% two years ago. This is the highest number since DataHaven started asking in 2015. The survey also found that lower-income residents and communities of color, including Black, Latino, and Indigenous residents, were more likely to face these challenges.
Erin Choquette, CEO of the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority, emphasized that the state’s policies are designed to help workers and families of all backgrounds. She explained that paid leave is one of those policies, allowing people to take care of their health or family’s health without worrying about paying for basic needs like housing.
The survey also showed that many Connecticut residents are less financially stable than before. About 29% of people reported living comfortably, while 30% said they were doing alright. Around 21% said they were just getting by, and 11% found it “difficult to manage. About 8% said they were having a very difficult time financially.
The United Way of Connecticut found that more residents are earning less than a living wage, with over 560,000 households unable to afford essential items. Rashida Rattray-Reid, from the CT Fair Housing Center, noted that programs like Paid Leave are essential for people who might be at risk of eviction or foreclosure because they couldn’t work due to illness.
She also highlighted that the same applies to caregivers looking after loved ones recovering from serious health issues. Rattray-Reid stressed that housing rights are human rights, and knowing what support is available can make a huge difference for those facing housing insecurity.
More details about the CT Fair Housing Center and CT Paid Leave can be found online.
