Noblesville Lions learn how HAND advocates for affordable housing

By LISA DICK
Noblesville Lions Club

At their meeting on Wednesday, April 8, the Noblesville Lions welcomed Andrea Davis, Executive Director of HAND, Inc., along with board member Scott Lowe.

Ms. Davis introduced her organization by explaining that, “Where we live impacts every aspect of our lives.” HAND’s mission is to build, preserve and advocate for affordable housing in the suburbs. She shared that housing costs are now outpacing incomes, and the average age of a first-time home buyer is now 40 years old.

Davis explained that one in four households struggle to afford basic needs, and Hamilton County is currently served by more than 40 food pantries to meet the needs of food insecure residents. In examining the housing needs of senior citizens, she shared that Hamilton County is considered a senior housing desert. When housing costs are more than 50 percent of total income, people have to choose between housing and other basic needs.

HAND was founded in 2003 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the housing needs of low- and moderate-income individuals and families in the northern suburbs of Indianapolis, including Hamilton, Tipton, and Boone counties. Their vision is for a community where everyone can thrive with a full range of quality housing options for every stage of life. HAND develops, owns, and manages 157 rental units, many designated for seniors over 55. Participation is based on income and funding comes from federal grants that are managed by the state.

Davis concluded with an invitation to participate in the 2026 HAND Suburban Housing Conference on April 23 at IMMI Conference Center in Westfield. The theme of the event will be “From Plans to Places: Turning Housing Systems Into Real Homes.” The conference will bring together local governments, employers, nonprofits, lenders, faith organizations, and community leaders to focus on strengthening our region’s housing future.

To learn more about HAND, Inc., visit their website at handincorporated.org.