HRB has helped us build our future on the island | LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Published 10:45 am Sunday, December 27, 2015

To the editor:

After graduating from college a few years ago with a mountain of student loans, my husband and I did not see homeownership in our future.

I am an illustrator and he is an architectural intern. With these careers we expected to spend years contributing most of our modest income to student loan payments instead of a savings account for a down payment. In 2012 we heard about Housing Resources Bainbridge (HRB), and were able to work with the staff to qualify for affordable housing at Ferncliff Village. Having a permanent, affordable home meant we could focus on more than just our basic housing necessities.

Living in affordable housing has allowed us to build stability while pursuing our careers. I have been able to work full time as an illustrator and make a place for myself in the industry. In the past two years since we moved to Ferncliff, I have had a children’s book published; won international illustration awards; exhibited my work at the Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles gallery and had a solo exhibit here on Bainbridge Island.

My husband has been able to complete his architectural registration exams; research and contribute to recommendations for the Bainbridge Island Comprehensive Plan; and serve on HRB’s board of directors, as vice-chair and now chair.

Without affordable housing I would need to work a second job to be able to afford rent. We would not have been able to accomplish all that we have without an affordable place to live.

Scholarships helped us succeed in college, now HRB has given us the opportunity to focus on long-term career growth. Despite working hard, we still needed help and are fortunate to live in such a welcoming and generous community.

JOANNA GORHAM

Bainbridge Island