Both tenants and homeowners can participate in a free housing course over the next two weeks.
This course, led by Sioux Falls Thrive’s Housing Action Team, is part of the nonprofit’s effort to overcome the accessibility barriers of transportation and childcare.
The goal of this team is to establish a free or low-cost community-wide system for providing basic education to tenants in a neighborhood-based model, and to support individuals and families in understanding their rights, responsibilities and potential as tenants and homeowners.
Two students work together to build a house at Terry Redlin Elementary School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.
Research among families with safe, stable and affordable housing shows fewer health problems, better academic performance, less psychological stress and more confident parents, according to a Thrive press release.
There are two tracks available for the seven classes; one on pathways to homeownership, and one on smart rental strategies. Participants who complete all seven lessons will receive a Homeownership Education Resource Organization (HERO) Certificate of Completion that they can use with landlords and lenders.
Classes will be held from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM from November 11 to 14 and November 18 to 20 at Terry Redlin Elementary School at 1721 East Austin Street. Free childcare will be available for preschoolers and children not enrolled in after-school care. Thrive also provides boxed refreshments and grab-and-go meals.
This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Renters and homeowners received a free housing course offered by Sioux Falls Thrive