Q: What is the HomeShare Program and how can I learn more about it?
A: Ventura County HomeShare is an innovative program that helps match people who have a home with extra room and people who are seeking a room to rent. Simply put, home sharing is an arrangement where two or more unrelated people share a dwelling, each having their own private space and sharing certain common areas. The HomeShare Program operates under the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging.
HomeShare seeker Kerry Albertine and provider Lois Lebman. They moved in together in November of 2023.
We know there is a lack of affordable housing options in the County, and this is a great option that can benefit both the home seeker and the homeowner. For example, an older adult may be living in a home that is larger than their current needs. They may find it difficult maintaining the home on their own. They can find a person to live in the home and offer a lower rent in exchange for some services such as taking out the trash or doing small household tasks.
The program facilitates the connection, assists with screening candidates, including background checks, and provides guidance throughout the process, without dictating the terms. The homeowner can set the terms that feel comfortable for them.
I spoke to the HomeShare Social Worker, Jerrica Van Nest, and asked her why this program is so important to the community. She responded “Let’s make better use of what we already have! Whether that asset is an empty bedroom or experience in the kitchen or behind the wheel. A program like HomeShare is not going to solve all of our community’s affordable housing issues. But thinking creatively, acting collectively, and being engaged with the needs of our neighbors will certainly help.”
She shared a recent success story from the program. Kerry, a housepainter in her 60s, was on housing lists waiting patiently for a place to call home. Finally, she found the HomeShare program and was matched with a local homeowner named Lois who was lonely and in need of more help at home. Kerry’s experience caring for her own parents as they aged at home made her a good fit for shared living with Lois. With a companion sharing meals and offering a helping hand with tasks around the house, Lois is able to remain in the home she shared with her family.
HomeShare is a mutually beneficial program. Plenty of people are in need of a room to rent at a reduced or lower rate. They may be newly single, a college student, or even a professional new to the area. This provides them with the opportunity to find a lower cost housing option perhaps in exchange for their skills.
Alternatively, the person sharing their home has the security of not being alone, and can arrange for tasks included in the rental agreement that improve their quality of life. Many homeowners, especially older homeowners, may not be able to pay for more help at home so this arrangement serves multiple needs.
Currently the program is seeking more homeowners to get involved and find their match. If you are a homeowner and want to learn more about the program, visit vcaaa.org/housing or call 805-477-7300.
One of the volunteers for the program, Joanne, a retired Nurse, said she wants people to know “that this is an opportunity to share their home with someone who would be able assist you with your needs in exchange for a lower rate of rent than the general market. The benefits for both parties go beyond housing and you may find meaningful connections that last a lifetime.”
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
