Kohl-Welles statement on Microsoft housing funds

January 17, 2019

Summary

“Microsoft’s generous investment not only helps our neighbors in need but makes sense as a business investment – especially if it wants to maintain a reliable and sustainable workforce”

Story

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Jeanne Kohl-Welles, chair of the Council’s Health, Housing and Human Services Committee, released this statement on Microsoft’s pledge to provide funds to combat homelessness and build housing throughout the region:

“With its pledge of $500 million, Microsoft reminds us what it means to be a major partner in the community and more than solely a major business.

“Too often, when we think of massive tech companies, we believe that everyone is making six figures and living luxuriously. The fact is these companies have just as many employees who are working pay check to pay check.

“Unfortunately, because of our skyrocketing housing costs, such workers as well as many middle-income professionals, are having to move further and further from where they work to find affordable housing.

“Microsoft’s generous investment not only helps our neighbors in need but makes sense as a business investment – especially if it wants to maintain a reliable and sustainable workforce.

“I look forward to other employers throughout Puget Sound becoming inspired by Microsoft’s progressive example and follow suit.”