People who face a long commute to and from work everyday are more likely to arrive late. Some end up quitting their jobs to find work closer to home, even if it means a pay cut and fewer opportunities to advance.
To make things easier on road-weary workers, and to help companies retain valuable employees, the Metropolitan Planning Council has teamed up with eight local housing groups and Chicago Metropolis 2020 to provide employer-assisted housing.
Through the initiative, eligible workers can receive money from their employer to help with closing costs or with a down payment on a new home closer to the job.
Last month, the Illinois Housing Development Authority sweetened the deal by offering to match dollar-for-dollar the assistance companies provide their moderate-wage workers.
“The state money really provided the incentive we needed to bring this to the next level,” said Robin Snyderman, housing director for the Metropolitan Planning Council. “We anticipate good news by the end of the summer.”
To be eligible, an employee’s family income cannot exceed 80 percent of the Chicago-area median, or $52,500 a year for a family of four.
Employers can call Samantha DeKoven at 312-922-5616 ext. 145 to learn more.
———-
Staylor@tribune.com
