This election season, Mercy Housing California residents took steps to make their voices heard at the ballot box through voter education and registration efforts in communities across the state.

Through partnerships with local election offices, civic engagement organizations, and affordable housing advocates, Mercy Housing resident services teams brought voter education and registration opportunities directly to residents, making it easier to access trusted election information and prepare for Election Day.

Since early September, teams across California have hosted more than 70 voter engagement events. Residents at communities including St. Andrew Senior in San Francisco, Eden House in San Leandro, and West Beamer Place in Sacramento received information about voter registration, ballot measures, voting options, and key election deadlines. By bringing these resources directly into the communities residents call home, Mercy Housing helped remove barriers to participation and encouraged meaningful civic engagement.

By the Numbers

• More than 300 residents engaged through voter education and registration activities
• Over 70 voter engagement events and workshops held in more than 60 communities statewide
• More than 160 Mercy Housing California residents registered to vote

For many residents, the events provided an opportunity to better understand how local and state decisions can affect issues such as housing, transportation, education, and access to services.

For A. Sotelo, a resident of Caroline Severance Manor in Los Angeles, participating in a voter education event underscored the connection between civic engagement and housing stability.

“Being unhoused requires an exhausting amount of mental energy. You’re constantly worrying about where to sleep, where you’ll be safe, and where you’ll be able to shower. Affordable housing has truly helped me and my family survive. So go make a difference and vote.”

– A. Sotelo

Across Mercy Housing communities, residents gained the information and confidence needed to participate in the election.

When people have the information and resources to participate in civic life, they are better positioned to shape the future of their neighborhoods and communities. By bringing voter education directly to residents, Mercy Housing is helping expand access to civic participation and ensure every voice is heard.