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Fair housing · Practical solutions · Stable homes

Everyone needs a stable place to live.When housing problems arise, there should be a fair way forward.

We protect tenants’ rights, respect landlords’ legitimate interests and help both sides find practical solutions through transparency, accountability and clear communication.

From PBS KVIEPrevention is the key.
Cherie Dimmerling on Rob on the Road. Watch the full PBS KVIE interview ↗

Not sure where to begin? Call 551-2ASSIST. You do not need to know the legal terminology before contacting us.

Recent FHCGS case studies

Intervention can be the difference between housing and homelessness.

These are real, recent cases in which the Fair Housing Council of Greater Sacramento provided direct assistance—not hypothetical examples. They show what persistent, informed advocacy can accomplish when tenants, housing providers and public agencies reach an impasse.

More than 85%of fair housing complaints in California involve disability-related discrimination. FHCGS has developed specialized experience helping people obtain accommodations and remain housed.

Recent FHCGS case study

A housing denial reversed

A severely disabled tenant and his live-in caregiver were rejected after a housing provider used incorrect income information—even after the voucher agency tried to correct it. FHCGS reviewed the documents and continued working through management until the error was acknowledged.

The provider reversed its decision and agreed to honor the original rent, preserving a path to stable housing.

Recent FHCGS case study

Civil rights protected during a medical crisis

A disabled tenant needed to move near specialized medical care. After her voucher transfer was denied, she was asked to waive her rights as a condition of receiving assistance. FHCGS coordinated pro bono counsel, documented the violations and pursued formal complaints.

The intervention forced renewed review and accountability while protecting the tenant’s right to seek appropriate housing and care.

These case studies describe actual FHCGS matters. Details are summarized and identifying information is limited to protect client privacy.

Our approach

Transparency before confrontation. Accountability without unnecessary hostility.

Housing disputes become harder when information is incomplete, communication breaks down or one party feels unheard. FHCGS brings clarity to the facts, accountability to the process and respect to the conversation.

01

Transparency

Establish the facts and make rights, responsibilities and expectations clear.

02

Accountability

Encourage everyone involved to follow the law and honor their commitments.

03

Fairness

Listen seriously to the legitimate concerns of residents and housing providers.

04

Resolution

Seek practical solutions that protect rights, preserve housing and avoid unnecessary conflict.

A different kind of advocate

Firm about rights. Fair to everyone. Focused on solutions.

Housing disputes rarely occur between parties with equal knowledge or resources. We help residents understand their position and make themselves heard.

We also understand that housing providers have legitimate rights, responsibilities and practical concerns. We do not begin by assuming wrongdoing. We clarify the facts, reduce misunderstandings and look for workable options.

FHCGS is an advocate for fair housing and a catalyst for practical resolution.

Our mission

Fair opportunity. Stable homes. Stronger communities.

The Fair Housing Council of Greater Sacramento is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to ensure that every person has a fair opportunity to obtain, enjoy and remain in a safe, stable home.

We combat housing discrimination and address serious housing conflicts through education, informed advocacy, constructive communication and practical problem-solving.

Leadership

Cherie Dimmerling

Founder and Executive Director

Cherie brings an unusual combination of civil-rights commitment and business, finance and executive experience to housing advocacy. She leads complaint intake, investigation, mediation support, public education and collaboration with landlords, public agencies, community organizations and pro bono attorneys.

Her approach is pragmatic and even-tempered: establish the facts, understand legitimate concerns on both sides and pursue lawful, workable solutions.

Help keep people housed

Local fair housing enforcement needs local support.

Donations expand rapid-response casework, disability advocacy and access to legal support. Volunteers and interns help the Council serve more people and identify patterns that demand accountability.

Start a conversation

Clarity is the first step toward resolution.

Whether you are a resident seeking help or a housing provider trying to resolve a problem, tell us what is happening and the best way to reach you.