Affordable teacher housing is scarce. This group is trying an innovative solution in Oakland

Melanie Turner found stability through Oakland’s Rooted program, which offers discounted housing to educators. She had been struggling to afford living in Oakland while pursuing a career in education. Now, she lives in a building purchased by the nonprofit Oakland Fund for affordable housing. This initiative is the first of its kind, converting existing buildings into subsidized housing for teachers. The Oakland Fund aims to own 150 units for educators in three years. This model helps retain teachers in the Bay Area, where high living costs are a major deterrent. Turner now enjoys peace of mind and community connection.