Improving housing security through renter education

Challenges with securing and maintaining housing underpin many societal challenges, and a lack of understanding about the issues and what can be done persists. To address this issue, University of Minnesota Extension provided renter education for individuals, community members and community organizations. Generally, community members had a low income, needed to build credit and rental histories, were new to the country or were new to renting or independent living. The curriculum was available in English and Spanish.

Individuals learned how to navigate lease agreements and security deposits, manage money to pay rent on time every month, secure safe housing, care for their unit and maintain good communication. Participants learned about money management, tenant rights, caring for a rental, establishing positive relationships with property managers and neighbors and using community resources to find affordable housing.

Project supported by Smith-Lever funds.