Study suggests housing can reduce publicly funded health costs

A report commissioned by One Neighborhood Builders revealed that Medicaid spending for the formerly homeless now in permanent supportive housing was significantly lower than for those still homeless. Key findings show that Medicaid costs were 43% lower for those in supportive housing, hospital and pharmaceutical costs dropped by 51%, and there were fewer emergency and inpatient visits. Those in housing also accessed more preventative behavioral health services.

ONE|NB Connects: A Case Study

In 2020, when COVID-19 became a pandemic, Central Providence faced significant challenges. With the highest poverty and COVID cases in Rhode Island, only 66.1% of households in the 02909 ZIP code had internet access, compared to the city’s 78.2%. While telehealth was promoted, many lacked the means for remote consultations. Responding to this, we launched a free WiFi network, ONE|NB Connects, to enhance digital equity. Our case study chronicles the project’s evolution, underscoring our commitment to bridging the digital divide in Central Providence.

Sheridan Small Homes: A Case Study

Our Sheridan Small Homes project in Olneyville aimed to show that building affordable, sustainable housing is economically feasible and desirable. The project addressed environmental justice by providing healthy, high-quality homes to lower-income communities, who are often most affected by pollution. The pilot build also served as training for the design team, teaching them about Passive Homes and zero net-energy construction. Our case study provides more details about this exciting project.