NEW CITY – Rockland County officials have launched a new campaign that addresses the region’s housing crisis and reduces stigma around affordable housing.

County Executive Ed Day and Community Development Director Alexandra Obremski announced the “Keep Rockland Home” Affordable Housing Campaign during the county’s fourth annual housing forum, held in conjunction with Fair Housing Month and Community Development Week.

Officials said the initiative seeks to promote understanding of affordable housing and highlight its role in supporting a range of residents, including seniors, young professionals, and essential workers.

“Our county is in a housing crisis, and despite the need to increase supply, affordable housing developments face resistance due to the stigma surrounding them,” Day said. “This campaign aims to not only dispel those rumors but remind residents of the value that those who qualify, including seniors, college graduates, teachers, essential workers, first responders, and more, bring to our community.”

The campaign follows a 2023 housing needs assessment that found more than 40% of Rockland County residents spend at least 30% of their income on housing, a level considered financially burdensome.

The forum featured a keynote address from Nora Madonick, whose firm is leading the campaign. She said the effort will focus on explaining housing challenges in clear terms while emphasizing the broader community benefits of accessible, stable housing.

“Housing that is safe, stable, and affordable across a broad range of incomes is critical to the continued economic growth and stability of Rockland County,” said Obremski. “Affordable housing is necessary for us to build strong community connections, while preserving the character of neighborhoods our residents love.”