Budget: Preserve Programs for Housing - HUD Programs. Oppose Cuts.

Today I take pen in hand to write and urge you to press hard and preserve funding for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Programs that are under the axe with the Trump Administration in this budget cycle and reconciliation bill. The Trump administration's proposed cuts to housing programs from the HUD are more red flags that as a democracy, we are failing to take care of our most vulnerable. As you know, these cuts will have devastating consequences for millions of Americans struggling to afford housing, and I’m writing because I recognize the need for this in many communities, not just my own. What will happen without these vital programs? It’s clear that no one in this administration cares about providing rental assistance, support services, and funding for fair housing enforcement to families, seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. Without this aid, many will face increased housing insecurity, homelessness, and discrimination, and that’s the truth of the matter. Cutting funds for initiatives like the Continuum of Care grants, Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), and Section 8 vouchers will force organizations like Grace House Services to turn away those in need or shut down entirely. There are countless stories of how people — young and old — have been helped by these programs: Individuals like Amanda Smith, who has finally found stability after years of housing instability and substance abuse issues, could lose their pathway to permanent housing and self-sufficiency. K.H., a senior living with disabilities in Fort Lauderdale, worries about becoming homeless without her Section 8 voucher to supplement her limited income. Getting homeless people a safe place to live as they get their lives together and overcome mental health challenges is also a keystone in how we take care of each other. However, this is all threatened: The Trump administration and Republicans propose dismantling fair housing offices and enforcement mechanisms will remove crucial protections against housing discrimination for members of protected classes, including racial minorities, families with children, and people with disabilities. This undermines the principles of equal opportunity and justice to which we as a country and every community must aspire to. Privilege for a few is not fair or a goal that we ought to be considering. You cannot allow partisan politics to jeopardize the housing security and well-being of our most vulnerable community members. I urge you to preserve full funding for HUD's housing programs and prioritize the needs of your constituents facing poverty and homelessness over corporate interests. We cannot return to the past when companies ran roughshod over. Affordable housing is a fundamental human right, and these programs provide a critical lifeline. Thank you for your service and your attention to this critical matter. Preserve HUD programs, NO to cuts in this budget.