INTRODUCTION: WHY THIS MATTERS
Imagine this: A teacher shaping the future of our children, living so far from her classroom that she can't stay late to help a struggling student. A firefighter-someone who runs toward danger to keep us safe-exhausted not just from his shifts but from juggling two jobs just to keep a roof over his family's head. These are the people who make our community thrive, yet many can no longer afford to live here in Newberg.
The rising cost of housing has forced hardworking families into impossible choices: food or rent, medication or gas, childcare or a safe home. These are choices no one should have to make.
THE NEED: A CRISIS WE CAN'T IGNORE
Imagine working tirelessly, yet owning a home feels impossible.
- Median Home Cost: $426,600
- Median Rent: $1,570-half a family's income.
- Housing Deficit: 140,000 units statewide
These aren't strangers-they're our teachers, nurses, and first responders. Without action, we risk losing them. Together, we can bring hope and make a difference.
SPARK NEWBERG COMES ALONGSIDE FAMILIES
This initiative supports families who are challenged with home ownership. The program targets households at less than 80% of Newberg's area median income (AMI). Newberg AMI was $114,400 in 2024. SPARK will target households earning less than $91,520.
Accepted applicants will move into one of 20 program housing units comprised of 1 - 3 bedroom apartments. The residents will participate in a 48-month program covering the following areas:
- Budgeting and Expense Tracking
- Skills to Create an Emergency Fund
- Debt Management
- Ways to Improve Credit
- Investment Strategy
- Retirement Planning
- Insurance
- Tax Planning
- Financial Education
- Community Involvement
Upon completion of the program, the goal is for participants to have saved up enough to afford a down payment on a home.
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