Letter to the editor: Urge Congress for a much-needed renters’ tax credit

Helping homes

As an incoming high school freshman, I am not looking forward to going back to school. However, in Kansas City, there are so many kids who are, because school is the only safe, air-conditioned place they have available. That is because their families lack access to affordable housing.

Since 1960, rents have risen 61% while renters’ incomes have gone up only 5%, according a Harvard University study. Data from the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Affordable Housing Resources Inc. shows that for every 100 extremely low-income renters in Missouri, there are only 42 affordable rental properties.

This could be helped by a renters’ tax credit, which could help lift millions of people out of poverty and put roofs over heads that need it most.

I understand how important it is to come home after a stressful day at school and have a safe, consistent place to stay where I can relax and feel welcome. Doesn’t every teen, child and adult deserve the same?

Stella Linn

Kansas City

This story was originally published July 20, 2019 at 5:03 AM.