Building Climate-Resilient Communities

Building Climate-Resilient Communities

Posted on October 31, 2024

Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) has spent 60 years creating healthier, stronger communities in the San Joaquin Valley. As part of this mission, SHE’s efforts have evolved to include not just affordable housing, but also access to sustainable energy, reliable transportation, and water conservation solutions. One example of these initiatives is Palm Terrace in Lindsay (pictured), which combines 108 housing units with resilience features like solar energy, a graywater system, and free transit passes. This forward-thinking approach ensures that SHE’s communities are prepared to thrive in a changing climate for the next 60 years and beyond. 

Palm Terrace embodies SHE’s commitment to integrating renewable energy and clean transportation infrastructure into housing development. Solar panels provide electricity for residents’ apartments and common areas, reducing energy costs while promoting grid independence. Residents benefit from energy-efficient appliances, and through a partnership with the California Vanpool Authority, vanpool services offer convenient and sustainable transportation options. By including eco-friendly features, SHE not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances residents’ quality of life. 

SHE’s Sustainable Energy Solutions (SES) team focuses on connecting disadvantaged communities to affordable energy and clean transportation resources. The team offers services like community needs assessments, technical assistance, project development, and community engagement. Programs like the Community Energy Navigator, Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH), and Miocar—an electric vehicle car-sharing service—are just a few examples of how SHE helps residents access sustainable energy and clean transportation options. 

As the San Joaquin Valley faces the impacts of climate change, including severe droughts, wildfires, and extreme temperatures, SHE’s work becomes increasingly vital. Climate change disproportionately affects the Valley’s vulnerable populations, including low-income families, seniors, and residents with health issues. Through community engagement and education, SHE empowers residents to understand climate change, prepare for its impacts, and build resilience. Initiatives like energy efficiency education, electric vehicle training, and water conservation programs are designed to support residents in adapting to and mitigating climate change effects. 

Click here to learn more about SHE’s Sustainable Energy Solutions and how they’re helping communities achieve energy independence and resilience.