Model 12: Workforce Housing

The term “workforce housing” is defined in many ways.  Today, it is often referred to housing for a workforce that makes above the income levels set for affordable housing.

In her introduction, Jill refers to workforce housing as housing built for a company’s workers. She peeks into historical models of company towns and contrast that with the work of Ralph and Cheryl Broetje who have not only provided 150 single-family homes for their migrant workers, but a village, including a store, school, day care and a chapel.

In his chapter, Roger tells of his first encounters with Ralph and Cheryl Broetje.  This down-to-earth couple has dedicated their lives and their business to God and the needs of their migrant employees. Roger recounts their journey of starting the largest private apple orchards business in the US and how in their process of responding to the needs of their employees, they were eventually led to build housing at affordable rates, which enables families to save for homeownership. 

The chapter ends with a delightful story of their trip to an overflowing Mexican orphanage. They told the children they help them expand their facilities if their 100 cherry trees would begin to produce (Ralph was about to cut down because they were not producing). In response to the children’s prayers, that year they produced $100,000 worth of cherries.  The orphanage was expanded. Since then, the money from subsequent cherries crops is managed in a foundation by their workers. They are given the authority to decide the recipients of these grant monies. As a result, ministries and villages are helped throughout the world.

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