NAHRO Names Rep. Ritchie Torres Legislator of the Year
Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, April 9, the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) named Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY15) one of its Legislators of the Year. The annual award is given to members of Congress who are strong advocates for housing and community development programs and for the NAHRO members who administer them.
“Representative Torres’ lived experience growing up in public housing and his dedication as a public servant make him a powerful and effective supporter for affordable housing programs and the families they serve,” said NAHRO CEO Mark Thiele. “It’s an honor to present him with our Legislator of the Year award.”
“There is no issue more important to me than expanding access to safe and affordable housing. When I was growing up in the Bronx, public housing was a lifeline for my family. My mother struggled every day to support her 3 children on $4.25 per hour — the minimum wage in the 1990s. I would not be where I am today without the stability affordable housing gave me and my family. I want to ensure every American, no matter their zip code, can say the same,” said Congressman Torres. “That is why I am so honored to have been named a Legislator of the Year by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. As long as I am in public service, you can count on me to fight to ensure the Bronx and every American living in public housing gets their fair share.”
At the age of 25, Torres was elected to City Council, becoming New York City’s youngest elected official and the first openly LGBTQ+ person elected to office in the Bronx. The New York Democrat represents the South Bronx in Congress and serves on the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee of House Financial Services. Rep. Torres’ commitment to ending tragic fires in the Bronx, dedication to improving housing programs, and lived experience in public housing makes him both the embodiment of a servant leader and an inspiration to countless others.
About NAHRO
NAHRO, which was established in 1933, is a membership organization of more than 26,000 housing and community development providers and professionals throughout the United States. NAHRO members create and manage affordable housing for low and middle-income families and support vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for all. They administer more than 3 million homes for more than 8 million people.