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1/31/24, 11:37 AM HSOA-24-41 <br />https://chapelhillnc.workflow.opengov.com/#/explore/records/63264/react-form-details/63264 9/14 <br />Primary Contact's Phone Number <br />919-943-6432 <br />Primary Contact's Email Address <br />debbie@orangecountylivingwage.org <br />Describe the proposed program and the target population to benefit from the program. Please also <br />explain how the program aligns with the Town of Chapel Hill and Carrboro's Human Services Program <br />Results Framework and/or Orange County's BOCC Goals and Priorities (250 words or less). <br />OCLW Living Wage Certification and Education program advocates for a living <br />wage for low-income workers across Orange County by certifying and promoting <br />employers who pay a living wage. This aligns directly with Strategic Objective #2 <br />to “increase livelihoods security” for local residents by increasing incomes (under <br />Intermediate Result 2.2). Earning sufficient income enables families to support <br />basic needs, lifts them from poverty, and reduces their reliance on other <br />services, promoting well-being (BCC goal). <br />The Living Wage program will continue outreach to local employers to promote a <br />living wage for employees. Incentives include actively promoting OCLW’s living <br />wage roster through its website, social media, Job Board, WCHL radio, bimonthly <br />newsletter, brochures, storefront decals, and framed certificates. Further, OCLW <br />is implementing quarterly networking/educational programming to help <br />employers and employees to be successful. <br />The most urgent issues facing Orange County include affordable housing, <br />climate, equity, and mental health. The simplest way to address our affordable <br />housing crisis is to pay workers enough to afford rent in the county. If more <br />workers can afford to live in the county, they enjoy shorter commutes, reducing <br />vehicle emissions, and allowing more time for family and leisure. Parents can <br />spend more time with their kids and communities, helping to close the <br />achievement gap and forming social connections. Not working multiple jobs and <br />commuting long distances also reduces stress and improves mental health. <br />Because BIPOC residents are disproportionately lower-wage workers, they will <br />benefit most from higher wages so they may live, work, and play in our <br />community. <br />Docusign Envelope ID: 5C318706-42D9-4B0F-B8A6-43E915CB7F39