CHR also provides housing for seniors and disabled islanders with a long history on Sanibel. When a spouse passes away and a widow or widower is forced to sell their island home where they lived for many years, a CHR rental unit can mean the difference between staying here and having to move off-island or even out of state.

The same holds true for long-time residents who become disabled. After being such a big part of their community, these residents should not have to feel forced to leave, and having an affordable housing program for Sanibel ensures that they will have a chance to stay.

“My family and I have worked on Sanibel for more than forty years. CHR makes it possible for us to live here as well.” – Yleana

“I’ve been on this island for over thirty years. After my wife died, I had two teenagers to bring up. CHR provided affordable housing so I could continue to work and live here and contribute to this remarkable community.” – Randy

“Without CHR’s affordable housing, I wouldn’t have been able to raise my son in my home town.” – Katie

“My jobs since moving to Sanibel have all been for Island businesses that support the continued patronage of visitors that propel our local economy. . .I could not afford to be here in a decent living environment without CHR.” – Allen

“I work on the island and being able to live on the island has saved me hundreds of dollars in gas and wear and tear on my car. I love the small community.” – Vivian

“CHR allowed me to return ‘home’. My children were born here, my husband died here, my children and their families live here.” – Helma