The affordable housing crisis is not only about the number of homes available to working people, seniors and young families but also where the homes are located. The shortage of affordable housing in "areas of opportunity," or communities with good jobs and schools, has devastating consequences for families, businesses and the larger community. Lower income and minority families suffer disproportionately.

The affordable housing shortage has had a major impact on the Chicago region. Good jobs are created far from the people who need them most. Labor costs increase as employers struggle to attract and retain employees forced to live farther from their jobs. Air pollution and traffic congestion mount as commutes lengthen. Children from low-income families continue to receive a sub-par education because their parents can't afford to live in a community with more successful schools. Sprawl rises as the high cost of land forces development outward to the fringe of the region where land is cheaper. The region's livability and competitive position in the global economy suffer because of a shortage of housing that meets the needs of all sectors of the workforce.

BPI helps create and preserve affordable housing in Chicago and throughout Illinois and ensures its equal distribution using a comprehensive approach that consists of:

• State policy initiatives, including the development and implementation of state laws that increase the availability of affordable housing
• Local policy initiatives that help local leaders to develop effective ordinances and programs
• Coalition building, education and outreach to expand public and political support for affordable housing