The Workforce Housing Coalition invites you to be part of the solution.

With the support of our members, we tackle the complex issues that contribute to our region’s limited housing options. We educate communities about the benefits of workforce housing -- apartments, condos and single-family homes that are affordable to people of modest means. And we offer planners and developers advice on how to meet the need. Since our inception in 2001, we’ve helped over 20 communities improve their housing regulations. In turn, local developers have created over 200 new units of workforce housing

Our Mission:

The Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast (WHC) is an education and outreach initiative which

• Hosts public forums and trainings to highlight solutions to the region’s housing challenges;
• Provides municipalities with research and technical assistance to help improve local housing policies;
• Provides developers with information and data to advance workforce housing projects.

The WHC is not a developer; rather, our mission is to be a catalyst for the development of a range of housing options for the diverse workforce in the Greater Seacoast region of New Hampshire and Maine (including most of Rockingham County, all of Strafford County – NH, and southern York County – ME).

The Problem:

The Greater Seacoast is one of the least affordable regions in the country, producing harmful economic, social and environmental impacts. Many cannot afford to live in the communities in which they work.  This increases commuting distances, which harms the environment and limits time for civic engagement and recreation.  Those who cannot afford to live in the area often move away, leaving employers who are unable to hire and retain the workers they need to sustain and grow their businesses. 

Who needs workforce housing? Those who take care of our children, our seniors and our communities. For example, teachers, health care workers, artists, municipal employees and the other workers who provide essential services - retail, service, manufacturing, and hospitality workers.  Workforce housing includes single-family homes, condominiums and apartments. 

Our Results:

In the past 12 months, we held 7 educational forums which included:

• The Housing Happy Hour Series  which featured four offerings rotated throughout the region and included expert presenters, tours and lively discussions;
• A seminar for legal and planning professionals on “Preserving Long-Term Affordability” through the use of restrictive covenants;
• The WHC’s 10th Anniversary Celebration which highlighted a decade of accomplishments and outlined demographic and economic trends that will continue to drive demand for workforce housing;
• Our 2nd Annual Workforce Housing Design Charrette which offered 60+ housing and planning professionals a day-long volunteer opportunity to conceive of affordable, workforce housing concepts for real parcels in the region.

 Since our inception in 2001, the WHC has

• Supported developers who’ve created close to 200 new units of workforce housing. 

• Contributed to the adoption of workforce housing ordinances in 20 Seacoast communities (NH & ME).

• Rallied support for critical legislation – including a landmark NH law that informs towns of their obligation to provide opportunities for workforce housing. 

• Mentored 5 additional housing coalitions and launched the NH Workforce Housing Council. 

Click here for a list of Board Members

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE WORKFORCE HOUSING COALITION (WHC)

The WHC is a membership organization.  Business, municipal and housing professionals like you keep our education and outreach activities going strong.  Membership entitles you to discounted admission to events!  Plus, you send a strong message that the Seacoast needs a balanced supply of housing – affordable options for all.