Discover how Philadelphia residents, leaders, and organizations are transforming housing justice through policy, advocacy, and community action. This compilation brings together seven powerful conversations that explore the intersection of housing, civic engagement, and equity, from the impact of local policies to grassroots organizing and storytelling that sparks change.
Hear from real estate experts, city officials, tenant advocates, grassroots organizers, and artists about how residents can take action, navigate city systems, and build power in their neighborhoods. Learn about affordable housing, homelessness solutions, neighborhood stability, and the role of art in inspiring civic participation.
Whether you’re a long-time Philadelphian or new to civic advocacy, this video offers insights, strategies, and stories that show how collective action shapes the future of housing and community in Philadelphia. Watch now to see how policy, participation, and people are driving meaningful change.
Housing insecurity in Philadelphia is a serious and ongoing issue affecting thousands of residents. Many households are cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities, leaving little for other necessities. Evictions, both formal court filings and illegal lockouts, impact a large number of renters each year, contributing to housing instability and homelessness. More than 5,000 people experience homelessness on any given night, and unsheltered homelessness has increased in recent years. These challenges disproportionately affect residents due to long-standing systemic inequities.
In response, Philadelphia has implemented housing justice initiatives, including eviction diversion programs, rental assistance efforts, and cash support pilots, aimed at keeping families housed. These programs, along with broader affordable housing strategies, seek to reduce displacement, promote stability, and address the root causes of housing inequality. Overall, while housing insecurity remains a major challenge, ongoing policy efforts and community advocacy are pushing toward greater housing justice in the city.
More episodes of our docuseries Community Matters:
Special Thanks:
Community Advocates and Organizers Across Philadelphia
Lenfest Every Voice Every Vote Team
All Participating Community Members
Philadelphia Residents Who Shared Their Stories
