Our Mission
We believe that everyone deserves a stable and secure home. We work tirelessly to create affordable housing with “No net loss” of tree canopy coverage.
Through partnerships with local organizations, and government agencies, we strive to build communities where trees and residents have the opportunity to thrive. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, and compassion guides our work as we seek to improve the lives of those we serve.
The COMPLICATED ISSUES
Southern California has the most acute need for affordable housing. In Los Angeles County alone, there is a shortage of 551,807 rental homes for households earning less than $41,500, and more than 47,000 homeless people.
Developers would rather bulldoze houses that are 1,000 square-feet on a 5,000-square-foot lot and build a new 4,000-square-foot house, or bulldoze that same 1,000 square foot house and build two or three smaller units (without covered parking) to rent at top dollar. TREES and AFFORDABLE HOUSING are no longer in the equation.
USC architecture associate professor Travis Longcore told SoCal Connected. “With that goes a dramatic decrease in tree cover. So if you were at 21 percent tree cover in a neighborhood at the beginning of the 2000s, you might be down to 11 percent at the end of the decade.” Currently, neighborhoods like East Hollywood, Lincoln and Boyle Heights only average about 6% canopy coverage. Without tree cover, urban areas have reduced air quality, become heat islands, causing higher temperatures that can lead to heat-related illnesses, and negative socioeconomic impacts.
Elderly
Seniors Citizens seeking suitable housing options that cater to their specific needs.
Equity-Focused Housing
Marginalized communities who are disproportionately impacted by affordable housing shortages, canopy loss and social inequities.
Disaster Relief Housing
Those affected by natural disasters or emergencies, offering temporary or long-term housing solutions to help them rebuild their lives.
Veterans
Veterans who require assistance in accessing affordable housing solutions.
Safe and Supportive Housing
We provide supportive housing options tailored to the unique needs of teens aging out of Foster Care and single parents, who are in need of stable, affordable housing for their children.
Low Income
Low-income individuals and families struggling to find affordable housing options.
Statewide Reach and Beyond
The BrightHeart Foundation’s mission and care extend statewide, encompassing diverse regions and cities across California to ensure that our affordable housing solutions reach individuals in need throughout the entire state.
Local Communities
We care for individuals and families within local communities throughout California, Central Florida and the Western Carolinas, focusing on specific areas where affordable housing is needed most.