Attracting and retaining a strong workforce in the North Country has become increasingly challenging and complex as housing costs rise and availability declines. Many employers and businesses recognize that the shortage of affordable housing directly impacts their ability to recruit and retain employees, yet they may not know where to turn for solutions.
Before you can assist your employees, it’s important to understand the housing resources available in your community or area. To help you get started, we have compiled a list of resources: homebuyer programs, rental listings, and financial assistance opportunities. You may also have additional local resources unique to your area or business, and space has been provided on the Flyer to add those.
The Housing Resources Flyer is a ready-to-use compilation of regional housing information designed to help employers easily share reliable resources with their staff.
In addition to providing resources to new employees, it is also essential to help current employees who may also need assistance with or securing housing during their employment with you. Once you’ve gathered relevant housing information, make sure it’ easily accessible to everyone on your team. We have compiled best practices and ideas to help you distribute resources to both existing and new employees. Providing ongoing access to resources helps your staff maintain stable housing and reduces turnover caused by housing challenges.
A Housing Ambassador Program assists individuals with housing needs by providing information, resources, and support. In a company setting, the ambassador acts as a liaison, helping employees navigate policies, rental applications, and available services to find and maintain suitable housing. A guide to creating a Housing Ambassador Program can be found here: (upload document).
Use a quick employee housing survey to identify needs and determine how you can assist!
We have started the following survey for you. Please feel free to use this template as is or edit it to meet your unique needs. Once you have your final draft, share it via an online survey tool such as Google Forms or Microsoft online tools. Have paper copies available and a return survey box, or circulate an electronic copy for completion and upload to an electronic drop box.
The Employer Housing Resource Toolkit was developed in 2025 to help employers support their workforce by providing clear guidance and accessible housing resources.
The North Country Council designed this Toolkit through a grant from New Hampshire Housing.
Special thanks to AHEAD, NH Housing, Meredith Village Savings Bank, and Bar Harbor Bank & Trust for their support, collaboration, and participation in the creation of this resource.
Give our staff a call or email us. We would love to hear about what you are working on and find ways to help.
