Statement from NAHRO Interim CEO on State of the Union Address

NAHRO Interim CEO Mike Gerber made the following statement on President Biden’s State of the Union address:

NAHRO applauds President Biden’s continued commitment to affordable housing and community development. NAHRO member public housing authorities and community development agencies do the vital work of building and maintaining safe, decent affordable housing in thriving communities. They provide shelter and much-needed supportive services to millions of low- and middle-income families, children, seniors, persons with disabilities, veterans and many others. 

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, skyrocketing rents and uneven economic recovery are increasing the pressure on both these households and many others who were already struggling to afford a place to call home. Our members need immediate resources in order to repair and maintain our irreplaceable public housing infrastructure. We need funding to ensure that the Housing Choice Voucher program can provide rental assistance to more of those in need. And we also need expanded Low Income Housing Tax Credits, as well as additional HOME and CDBG funds, to help build more affordable housing in vibrant, sustainable communities.  

All across the nation, in cities, towns, suburbs and rural areas, housing costs are rising. Each day, more families face the risk of losing their homes. NAHRO calls on Congress to finalize the $150 billion in critically needed affordable housing and community development resources that have already been approved by the House. Millions of struggling people are counting on them.