FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 7, 2024

Mayor Noble & Family of Woodstock Release Survey Results for Kingston Home Sharing Program

KINGSTON, NY – Mayor Steven T. Noble, Family of Woodstock, and the Kingston Housing Task Force are pleased to release the results of a public survey that gauged interest in expanding the HomeShare Woodstock program to Kingston.

Last year, Family of Woodstock launched HomeShare Woodstock, a program that connects home providers and home seekers, allowing each to remain in their communities while offering a mutually beneficial, affordable housing solution. After an intensive matching process, HomeShare helps home providers gain extra income and receive help with tasks while providing home seekers an affordable rental for someone in the community.

HomeShare Woodstock is the state’s first free home sharing program outside New York City. The program currently has six successful matches benefitting fourteen people. The HomeShare Woodstock staff work hard to make successful matches and follow the homesharers throughout the match, helping with any issues that may come up. HomeShare Woodstock has consulted with dozens of the more than sixty programs in the United States to create its model and is now helping other communities explore home sharing.

Results of the recent public interest survey, which can be found here, indicate a positive response to bringing a homesharing program to the City of Kingston. The survey was distributed through various nonprofit organizations, community groups, and faith organizations. Respondents totaled 131 with 100 expressing support of a home sharing program as a solution for Kingston’s housing emergency.

Mayor Noble said, “Here in Kingston, we are always looking for creative ways to provide enough affordable housing to keep up with demand. We believe the HomeShare program could provide much-needed housing. The recent public interest survey showed local residents felt that a home sharing program would also be beneficial in helping seniors to age in place while receiving much-needed additional income. Other advantages of this program could be alleviating loneliness, providing security, and improving overall mental health. I want to thank everyone who participated in the survey and look forward to working with Family of Woodstock to continue to explore bringing this program to our community.”

Janice La Motta, Program Director of HomeShare Woodstock said, “While most responses were positive, the concerns expressed by some will be addressed as we begin to tailor a home sharing program for Kingston. As we did when creating HomeShare Woodstock, we will create procedures and policies that aim to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and mutually beneficial experience for all involved.”

Bartek Starodaj, City of Kingston Director of Housing Initiatives, said, “As we work to increase housing affordability in Kingston, the survey results affirmed there is local enthusiasm for the program and that there is plenty of appetite for participation from home sharers and home seekers.”  

A steering committee will be formed to determine next steps. Kingston residents interested in serving on the steering committee to launch the program should fill out this interest form by May 19. Residents may also contact [email protected].