Broward County's housing crisis pushes families to the brink of homelessness

Housing costs in Broward County continue to rise, leaving many families struggling to keep a roof over their heads. A local nonprofit reports a growing number of residents facing eviction, with many just one emergency away from homelessness. Ashley Walker, a single mother of two teenage boys, was evicted after losing her job as a dental assistant. She now works part-time as a waitress but still cannot afford stable housing. Her sons stay with relatives while she searches for a solution.

Walker has applied for jobs daily and takes on extra shifts where possible. She holds qualifications in dental assisting, bartending, CPR, and water safety instruction. Despite her efforts, she describes local rents as 'astronomical' and beyond her means.

Dawn Liberta, executive director of Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies of Broward County, confirms the trend. Her organisation previously helped Walker delay eviction, but the support was short-term. According to Liberta, 44 percent of renters in the county spend at least 30 percent of their income on housing, classifying them as 'cost-burdened'.

Rising inflation has pushed food and housing expenses even higher over the past year, deepening the crisis for families like Walker’s. Her sons send her encouraging messages, which she says help her stay focused during the struggle. Walker remains in search of affordable housing while balancing work and job applications. The nonprofit continues to assist families in similar situations, but long-term solutions are scarce. With nearly half of local renters already stretched thin, the pressure on households is only increasing.