Eviction is a Social Problem: Landlords, Mediation, Resource Navigation Come Togeather to Sustain
A Talk by Natalie Ryan , John Katz , Mairead McCarthy , Adam DiBuo and Chuck Keenan
About this Talk
Eviction is a pervasive issue that destabilizes families and communities, particularly impacting low-income and non-white households. In Allegheny County alone, landlords file approximately 14,000 eviction lawsuits each year, exacerbating the affordable housing crisis and displacing Black Pittsburgh residents to more isolated areas.
The COVID pandemic highlighted the urgent need for robust rental assistance. While initial struggles left many small landlords vulnerable, the subsequent growth of rental assistance programs has helped thousands of families remain in their homes. Collaborative efforts between local partners in eviction prevention — through outreach, resource navigation, mediation, legal representation, and rental assistance — have been instrumental in preventing eviction and resolving landlord-tenant disputes.
In the last year, these efforts prevented eviction for more than 1,000 families within Pittsburgh’s magisterial districts. This panel will examine the formation, outcomes, and effectiveness of these programs, showcasing the importance of continued funding and support to secure housing stability in Allegheny County.