Karena Haas once called her apartment at Green Meadows Retirement Community in Springfield her sanctuary—a place that kept her connected to a loving community of fellow seniors. After her husband died three years ago, Karena found solace in the friendships she cultivated there, providing her with a support network that helped her navigate through tough times. But now, at 78, Karena is at risk of losing not just her home, but her community, her stability, and her peace of mind due to an impending eviction notice affecting numerous residents.

What’s happening at Green Meadows is a grave injustice. The property management announced plans to convert the affordable housing complex into high-priced condos, essentially forcing out low-income elderly residents like Karena who have called this place home for years.

Statistics show that seniors who face forced evictions are at an increased risk of depression and physical health decline. More than 25% of the residents at Green Meadows depend on the income-based rent to survive. This sudden disruption is not only unfair but potentially harmful to their health and wellbeing.

Instead of giving the boot to these vulnerable residents, we are calling on the property management to halt the conversion process immediately. We urge them to explore alternative solutions that preserve the affordable housing units, such as securing funding for necessary upgrades within the framework of existing affordable housing agreements, or partnering with non-profit organizations to ensure that senior residents can remain in their homes.

This isn’t just Karena's fight. It’s a fight for all seniors who have contributed so much to their communities and deserve to age in place with dignity.

Your signature can make a difference. Stand with Karena and her neighbors at Green Meadows by signing this petition to stop the unjust eviction and protect affordable housing for seniors.