To the editor:

Housing insecurity, no matter what the cause, is deeply traumatic for people and their families. It affects their ability to focus and to be productive and creative in their work. It also affects the ability of businesses, nonprofits and communities to attract new people to the region and to retain those who are working and living here already.

The rental housing crisis in the Adirondacks is hitting home at ANCA (Adirondack North Country Association). Out of our staff of 16, several are in insecure housing situations. Three people are acutely affected at this moment — having to vacate their current homes and unable to find long-term housing.

ANCA is well established in the community, and the jobs we create help provide financial and social stability. We anticipate hiring additional staff this year, including a new executive director, as we continue to expand our programs and prepare for my upcoming retirement. Housing availability is likely to loom large in our ability to attract highly qualified people for these important community-based career opportunities.

We are putting out the word that we are seeking an all-hands-on-deck short-term solution for our three staff members who are seeking housing immediately. Realtors, homeowners, neighbors, community members — please let us know if you have any leads on available housing that may suit their needs.

Please contact us at anca@adirondack.org or 518-891-6200 if you can help. We appreciate any information you can offer.

Kate Fish

Executive director, ANCA

Saranac Lake