Getting an eviction notice can feel like hitting rock bottom, but unfortunately, it only gets worse. An eviction on your record chases off future landlords, sinks your credit score, and can affect your mental well-being, job prospects, and health.
We have some of the highest eviction rates in the country, and the problem is about to get worse. There is a possible solution to this problem – but it might be surprising! What is it?
“Communal living” has recently regained momentum – though for Black people, it goes way back to pre-Colonial Africa. Communal living spaces are “intentional communities” where individuals and families come together to share common space and work together.
Modern “coliving” spaces can have many perks, such as cleaning services, fully furnished rooms, utilities, and WiFi included.
It might seem strange at first, but coliving spaces come with a built-in community. You can form lasting friendships, share garden space or childcare, and otherwise support each other. Black culture is community-oriented – coliving could also be a way of returning to our roots.
Some also include communal ownership – meaning wealth-building as well as risk are shared by all.
Being evicted can be a MAJOR setback. We as Black people have to come together to build and live in spaces that meet our needs – and “coliving” could be a unique answer.