Where we came from…
SCH, a NH non profit corporation, has evolved from an informal group of residents who began meeting in 2005 to discuss the shared concern that, while Sandwich is growing, local housing options are changing in a way that is not always beneficial to the vitality of the town. The most visible result of the changes is the shrinking population at the Sandwich Central School, which has declined more than 30% in the past nine years. The lack of housing options for young working families with children is repeatedly cited as one of the key factors contributing to the decreasing numbers of school children.
SCH, a NH non profit corporation, has evolved from an informal group of residents who began meeting in 2005 to discuss the shared concern that, while Sandwich is growing, local housing options are changing in a way that is not always beneficial to the vitality of the town. The most visible result of the changes is the shrinking population at the Sandwich Central School, which has declined more than 30% in the past nine years. The lack of housing options for young working families with children is repeatedly cited as one of the key factors contributing to the decreasing numbers of school children.
What we’ve learned…
In 2006 a survey by SCH found that Sandwich residents had additional concerns regarding the town’s housing options which went beyond the elementary school issue. Responses included individuals that work in Sandwich, who would like to settle in town, but can’t find housing that fits their budget; employers who find it difficult to attract and retain employees due to ever escalating home prices; and parents who raised families in town and now find that their children, who work locally, are struggling to find rentals and/or homes to purchase as they start families of their own.
In 2006 a survey by SCH found that Sandwich residents had additional concerns regarding the town’s housing options which went beyond the elementary school issue. Responses included individuals that work in Sandwich, who would like to settle in town, but can’t find housing that fits their budget; employers who find it difficult to attract and retain employees due to ever escalating home prices; and parents who raised families in town and now find that their children, who work locally, are struggling to find rentals and/or homes to purchase as they start families of their own.
Where we are going…
We are working to increase community awareness about the changes occurring in town and the role that housing plays in them. We hope to get people thinking and talking about questions essential to Sandwich’s future such as: What does a continuing drop in enrollment mean for our Elementary school? How will volunteer organizations such as our fire department be affected by the increasing loss of “young and middle aged” residents? How will Sandwich’s unique “culture” change if land and housing prices continue to rise at a much faster rate than salaries for local employment?
We are working to increase community awareness about the changes occurring in town and the role that housing plays in them. We hope to get people thinking and talking about questions essential to Sandwich’s future such as: What does a continuing drop in enrollment mean for our Elementary school? How will volunteer organizations such as our fire department be affected by the increasing loss of “young and middle aged” residents? How will Sandwich’s unique “culture” change if land and housing prices continue to rise at a much faster rate than salaries for local employment?
Underpinning philosophy …
The efforts of SCH stem from a shared belief that a healthy, sustainable community includes a wide range of housing options. Historically this is one of the essential characteristics that has contributed to making Sandwich such a special place to live. We trust that the Sandwich community can address the current housing challenge both responsibly and collectively. SCH welcomes invitations from groups, organizations and individuals to meet and talk about our town’s future. We encourage involvement, ideas, help and support. If you are interested in getting involved please contact us.
The efforts of SCH stem from a shared belief that a healthy, sustainable community includes a wide range of housing options. Historically this is one of the essential characteristics that has contributed to making Sandwich such a special place to live. We trust that the Sandwich community can address the current housing challenge both responsibly and collectively. SCH welcomes invitations from groups, organizations and individuals to meet and talk about our town’s future. We encourage involvement, ideas, help and support. If you are interested in getting involved please contact us.
About Us
Our Vision
The community of Sandwich will maintain its small town rural character, continuing to embrace residents of all ages, interests and incomes by providing a diverse range of housing options appropriate for a range of needs and local income levels.
Our Mission
The mission of the Sandwich Citizens Housing is to responsibly meet the diverse housing needs of our community.
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