The City of Gastonia encourages public awareness about Fair Housing Month during the month of April and acknowledges the importance of the Fair Housing Act, which was signed into law 55 years ago in 1968. The City’s Department of Housing and Community Engagement hosted a Fair Housing Education and Art Contest for children attending the afterschool program at the T. Jeffers Community Center.
“Education and awareness about fair housing laws continues to be important for all families and individuals as the population of our City grows,” said Danette Dye, Housing and Neighborhoods Director for the City of Gastonia. “Fair housing education allows for more informed decision-making and greater housing choices.”
Fair Housing Education and Art Contest
On March 17, children attending the afterschool program at the T. Jeffers Community Center in Gastonia participated in an art contest, showing their idea of what “home” means to them. Kenny Gehrig, the City’s HUD Administrator presented the young winners with a gift card.
Workshops by NC Legal Aid
Legal Aid of North Carolina is offering fair housing training workshops in April and May. More information is available at this link. Those who believe they are a victim of discrimination in housing can contact Fair Housing Equal Opportunity.
Fair housing laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or family status (living with minor children). These laws are designed to protect your right to rent an apartment, buy a home, obtain a mortgage, or purchased homeowner’s insurance free from discrimination.