EASTON, PA – March 7, 2024 — Last month, a cohort from the City of Easton launched its participation in the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s fourth Reinventing Our Communities (ROC) Cohort Program. The Easton Cohort, comprised of representatives from the City, Third Street Alliance for Women & Children, Safe Harbor of Easton, ProJeCt of Easton, Greater Easton Development Partnership (GEDP), the Housing Authority of Easton (HACE), and the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) of the City of Easton, is developing a multiyear plan to expand economic opportunities for local renters, residents of color, and individuals currently unhoused.

The Philadelphia Fed is partnering with NeighborWorks America and Race Forward throughout the 14-month program to help the Easton Cohort:

• address the structural barriers that limit access to quality, safe, and affordable rental housing;
• partner with local housing organizations to ensure that housing programs and tenant-based supports mitigate rental housing challenges; and
• explore potential financing options and interventions that can increase housing opportunities within the community.

“One of the Federal Reserve’s goals is to strengthen regional economies,” said Theresa Singleton, senior vice president of the Community Development and Regional Outreach Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. “Communities that have safe and affordable housing options reach their full potential by attracting more workers, consumer spending, and economic growth.”

The City of Easton cohort is also engaging in housing webinars, coaching from national housing leaders, racial equity training, and peer learning with the 10 other participating communities from across the country.

As highlighted by Mayor Salvatore J. Panto, Jr., “Affordable housing remains a top priority within the City and for this administration. As a result, we’re frequently exploring ways in which we can enhance our knowledge base and capacity around rental housing that remains equitable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. This program, in partnership with the Philadelphia Federal Reserve, will only add to initiatives already underway that seek to strengthen quality of life in Easton.”

“This is a unique opportunity to examine best practices, learn from peers across the country and engage in planning with our Easton Cohort partners,” shared Alisa Baratta, Executive Director of Third Street Alliance for Women & Children. “We look forward to adding new voices to our discussions, challenging our assumptions, and developing innovative plans to address the gaps in affordable and equitable rental housing in the community.”

Cohort Spokespersons: John Kingsley (jkingsley@easton-pa.gov) & Sean Ziller (sziller@easton-pa.gov)

Visit philadelphiafed.org for more information about the 2024 ROC Cohort Program.

Information provided to TVL by:
Sean Ziller