Welcome to CLPHA's Press Room
CLPHA experts welcome interview requests from print, radio, television, and online reporters and are happy to provide their insights on issues of public housing and related legislation and policy.
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David Greer
Director of Communications
(202) 550-1381 or dgreer@clpha.org.
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Statement From Council of Large Public Housing
Authorities Executive Director Sunia Zaterman
Washington, DC – “The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), representing more than 70 of the country’s largest and most innovative housing authorities, is calling on Congress to reject the Trump Administration’s FY18 budget, which proposes to slash $6.2 billion in funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including $2 billion in cuts to public housing. If realized, the draconian cuts included in this budget would not only have severe and cumulative effects on public and affordable housing programs across the country, but it would also shred the safety net of other public assistance programs on which many low-income Americans rely.
“The Trump Administration’s full FY18 budget proposal, released today, Tuesday, May 23, would devastate HUD programs that are currently helping over 1.2 million households that reside in public housing, including families, seniors, persons with disabilities, and close to 800,000 children. The budget targets America’s most vulnerable citizens with drastic cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), while also slashing disability benefits and student loan and education programs, thereby crippling essential support systems affecting many of the residents we serve in low-income housing.
“The Administration’s dramatic HUD reductions come at a time when the federal government should actually be investing in public housing as part of the nation’s infrastructure, as such investment generates economic growth, creates jobs, bolsters productivity, and generates tax revenue for localities.
“The budget proposes $628 million for the Public Housing Capital Fund compared to $1.942 billion in FY17; $3.9 billion for the Public Housing Operating Fund compared to $4.4 billion in FY17; $17.584 billion for Section 8 voucher renewals compared to $18.355 billion in FY17; and $1.55 billion for administrative fees compared to $1.65 billion in FY17.
“Everyone should be alarmed by the magnitude of these proposed cuts -- the Public Housing Capital Fund alone sustains a cut of over 67 percent. The irony of this particular cut is that it not only undermines basic health and safety improvements, it also makes it virtually impossible to leverage private investment, which HUD claims is a major policy priority.
“Another example is the proposed $771 million reduction to the Housing Choice Voucher program, which provides housing vouchers to needy families. These budget reductions, coupled with rising rents and inflation, will result in the loss of hundreds of thousands of vouchers and threaten currently-housed families with homelessness.
“CLPHA and the nation’s largest public housing authorities are asking members of Congress to reject the cuts proposed by the Trump Administration, as they will significantly harm our most vulnerable citizens and undermine our already significant public investment in this affordable housing stock.”
The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), representing more than 70 of the country’s largest and most innovative housing authorities, calls on the Administration and Congress to reject the draconian proposal to slash more than $6 billion in funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including $2 billion in cuts to public housing.
There are over 1.2 million households currently residing in public housing. Seniors and persons with disabilities constitute over half of all residents, and there are over 600,000 children residing in public housing. Public housing cuts will fall directly on the shoulders of residents currently residing in public housing and reduce opportunities for millions of families languishing on waiting lists across the country.
The public housing capital fund provides modernization and rehabilitation funding for the 1.2 million unit public housing portfolio. The reported cut to the capital fund of $1.3 billion represents close to a 70% reduction from last year’s funding level. These proposed cuts will dramatically accelerate the current estimated loss of 10,000 to 12,000 public housing units already lost annually due to chronic underfunding.
The public housing operating fund covers day-to-day operational and maintenance expenses not covered by resident rents. The reported cut to the operating fund of $600 million is a 13% percent reduction from last year, and approximately 72% of what is needed. This funding level will have a devastating impact on the ability to operate and maintain this housing and severely endanger the health, wellbeing, and safety of our most vulnerable children, families, and seniors reliant on housing assistance.
These cuts directly contradict the findings of the congressionally-mandated 2010 HUD study on the backlog of public housing capital repair needs estimated at $26 billion and annual accruing capital needs estimated at $3.4 billion. HUD’s budget does not come close to meeting the annual need and contributes to the growing backlog need.
The tenant based rental assistance program which provides housing vouchers to needy families will also experience a $300 million reduction according to the reports on the budget. This cut coupled with rising rents and inflation will result in the loss of hundreds of thousands of vouchers and threaten currently housed families with homelessness.
We call on the Administration and Congress to reject these draconian cuts that will harm our most vulnerable citizens and undermine our already significant public investment in this affordable housing stock.
Statement From Council of Large Public Housing Authorities Executive Director Sunia Zaterman
The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, which represents 70 of the nation’s largest public housing authorities (PHAs) in cities across the United States, congratulates Dr. Ben Carson on his nomination as Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Housing stability is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty for families, and our nation’s PHAs have been on the front lines of this fight, helping to develop creative solutions to our housing crisis, and implementing these ideas in their communities.
CLPHA looks to Dr. Carson to advocate for adequate funding for housing programs, to support implementation of innovative programs on the local level, including the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) and Moving to Work (MTW), and to provide PHAs with the tools to promote the cross-sector partnerships that connect housing to health, education and other sectors to lift families out of poverty.
As someone who spent part of his upbringing in public housing, Dr. Carson represents the promise to create opportunity and lift people out of poverty. We look forward to working with him and HUD to provide safe, decent, and affordable rental housing to low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
From the NYCHA Journal:
In January 2026, every kindergartener who lives in Red Hook Houses and attends a New York City public school will receive a $1,000 contribution towards college savings, thanks to a new community scholarship launched by Red Hook Initiative, NYC Kids Rise, and local philanthropists.
The Red Hook Initiative Community Scholarship 2026 builds on the NYC Kids Rise Save for College Program, a citywide scholarship and savings program that provides families, schools, and communities a way to come together to invest in children’s futures.
The program began in 2017 in Queens and expanded in 2021 to include all kindergarten students enrolled in NYC public schools. Almost every 1st through 4th grader has a NYC Scholarship Account with funds for their futures. To date, there are nearly 280,000 scholarship accounts totaling almost $50 million for students across the five boroughs.
The $1,000 that will be deposited into the Red Hook kindergarteners’ NYC Scholarship Accounts in January is in addition to the initial $100 seed they receive when their savings account is opened.
“This investment is a down payment on the futures of Red Hook’s youngest learners,” said Michael Partis, Executive Director at the Red Hook Initiative. “It sends a clear message: We believe in you and your potential. By providing these resources early, we’re opening doors for children and families that have historically been left behind.”
“The Save for College Program has been designed to allow every part of a child’s community — from schools, to philanthropy, to local businesses, to civic organizations and places of worship — to come together to show support for their children and invest in their futures together,” said Debra-Ellen Glickstein, Founding Executive Director of NYC Kids RISE. “We all have a role to play to make sure our kids are set up for success. Thank you to the Red Hook Initiative for this pioneering investment and the incredible community of support in Red Hook Houses.”
From Fresno Housing's newsletter:
Fresno Housing proudly celebrates Monica Jones, a HeartCorps member with the American Heart Association, who was named a finalist for Member of the Year for her outstanding service across Fresno County.
In collaboration with Fresno Housing’s Resident Empowerment department, Monica facilitated over 150 workshops on blood pressure awareness, healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management, delivered in multiple languages and hosted at three Fresno Housing communities. These programs brought free screening stations, education, and referrals directly to where residents live, removing barriers to preventative care.
In her second year, Monica became a resident of Fresno Housing herself, experiencing the program’s impact firsthand. Today, she continues her journey as an outreach ambassador, helping others in her community take control of their health and access vital resources.
This work reflects the mission of Resident Empowerment, to meet residents where they are and connect them with opportunities that support long-term wellness, independence, and leadership.
From the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA):
HACLA is proud to announce the launch of its AmeriCorps Program, an exciting new initiative dedicated to empowering residents, fostering community engagement, and workforce equity across our communities. Officially named HACLA AmeriCorps and launching in January 2026, the program invites individuals to serve in areas like the WorkSource Center, Permanent Supportive Housing, or Section 8, helping families and residents while gaining hands-on experience, leadership skills, and benefits such as education awards and professional development.
From CVS Health's press release:
CVS Health® (NYSE: CVS) is expanding access to health care careers with the launch of its new Workforce Innovation and Talent Center and Community Resource Center in Fort Worth, in collaboration with Fort Worth Housing Solutions. The new dynamic space is designed to build a pipeline of skilled health care professionals by offering no-cost workforce training and health care services.
“Our new Workforce Innovation and Talent Center aims to create pathways to opportunity,” said Sheryl Burke, SVP of Corporate Social Responsibility and Chief Sustainability Officer at CVS Health. “By working hand-in-hand with the Fort Worth Housing Solutions and local workforce organizations, we’re helping community members gain the skills they need for in-demand roles—like pharmacy technicians—and build healthier futures for themselves and their families.”
As the health care industry faces a growing talent shortage, CVS Health is setting a new standard in corporate-led workforce development with its Fort Worth Workforce Innovation and Talent Center. The center offers no-cost, hands-on training for roles like pharmacy technicians, customer service associate and call center representatives for both retail and non-retail —all in a simulated retail environment that mirrors real-world scenarios. Graduates are encouraged to apply for positions at CVS Health, creating a pathway to employment opportunities.
“We are so honored to partner with CVS Health in Stop Six,” said Mary-Margaret Lemons, President of Fort Worth Housing Solutions. “Over half a billion dollars will be invested in housing and community redevelopment in this neighborhood, and a key part of that strategy is ensuring the people of Stop Six, have access to health care, education and economic mobility. Free training opportunities at the WITC will provide new skills for residents to qualify for higher-paying jobs and change the trajectory of their families. FWHS is so excited to continue this community-building work with CVS Health.”
Additionally, the WITC will connect participants with valuable resources to aid their success, including Goodwill, Easter Seals and United Way. Participants can also advance their careers through programming pipelines at the College of Healthcare Professions and the University of North Texas.
"This partnership between CVS Health and Fort Worth Housing Solutions is exactly the kind of investment that strengthens our city’s foundation,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “By equipping residents with skills for high-demand health care jobs and connecting this community with vital resources, the new Workforce Innovation and Talent Center is building a healthier, more prosperous Fort Worth for generations to come."
The new Community Resource Center is supported by Aetna, a CVS Health company. The CRC provides the public, including workforce program participants, with access to health education, assistance navigating health benefits, computers and state-of-the-art teleconferencing and available space for community events. Providing visitors with access to health screenings is planned for late 2025.
“As a company focused on health solutions, we recognize the connection between stable employment and health and wellness,” said Stephanie Rogers, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Texas. “By co-locating the WITC and CRC in Fort Worth, we’re bringing together essential resources to help individuals in local communities achieve professional success and lead healthier lives.”
Working with the Fort Worth Housing Authority builds on CVS Health and Aetna’s long history of community support in Texas. To date, CVS Health has invested more than $232 million in affordable housing across Texas, helping to create, preserve and renovate nearly 14,000 housing units. Also, in conjunction with Fort Worth Housing Solutions, the company invested in the development of Babers Manor, a new 80 unit mixed-income residence located in Fort Worth’s Stop Six Neighborhood that will offer community members career training opportunities through CVS Health’s Fort Worth WITC. Additionally, throughout this year CVS Health has awarded over $700,000 to local organizations such as Easterseals Lonestar, The Rose, and Family Service Association of San Antonio. The company also offers free health screenings to individuals nationwide through its Project Health initiative. Year to date, CVS Health hosted 279 Project Health events, which saw over 16,000 participants and provided over 65,000 screenings in Texas.
From the District of Columbia Housing Authority's press release:
Today, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA), nonprofit developer The Community Builders (TCB), Dantes Partners, and Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau joined community members in celebrating the grand opening of Park Morton Apartments.
The new five-story, 142-unit, fully affordable multifamily building is the first on-site building delivered at Park Morton under the District’s New Communities Initiative (NCI).
“Park Morton Apartments represents more than new housing—it’s a commitment to neighborhood revitalization,” said Deputy Mayor Nina Albert. “By investing in this project, we’re creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and laying the foundation for long-term prosperity in the Park View community.”
“So many people in the community have poured their hearts into this project. This is exactly what we’ve talked about since the start—delivering beautiful, dignified housing to the people of Park Morton. This is the first phase of more than 500 new units to be built here and at Bruce Monroe, just down Georgia Ave, making Ward 1 a leader in housing production over the past 10 years,” said Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau.
Located at 610 Park Road NW in the Park View neighborhood, Park Morton Apartments includes 40 replacement units for returning Park Morton residents. DCHA, TCB and Dantes Partners are co-developers of the site, which originally consisted of 12 garden-style apartment buildings.
“Park Morton Apartments exemplifies our collective goal to create mixed-income communities that offer modern, affordable homes and enhance the quality of life for DCHA families,” said Keith Pettigrew, DCHA Executive Director. “DCHA is proud to partner on a project that prioritizes inclusion, equity and community as it brings high-quality affordable housing to the Park View neighborhood.”
The newly constructed midrise building offers studios, one-, two- and four-bedroom apartments to tenants earning 0-80% of the area median income (AMI). The modern units feature simulated hardwood flooring, balconies, dishwashers and in-unit washers and dryers. Community amenities include a parking garage, fitness center, rooftop lounge, two courtyards, a “Kids Hub” lounge, a “Tech Hub” coworking space, a resident lounge and covered bike storage.
“The grand opening of Park Morton Apartments underscores TCB’s mission to build and sustain strong communities where all people can thrive,” said Bart Mitchell, President and CEO of The Community Builders. “We’re incredibly thankful to our partners at the City of Washington, D.C., and Dantes. With phase one now open, residents are already connecting to amenities and services that bring opportunity. TCB looks forward to continuing the revitalization of this neighborhood and delivering more affordable homes to the people of D.C.”
The opening of the new multifamily building marks the completion of Phase 1 of the Park Morton Redevelopment Plan. Future phases will include the construction of 47 townhomes, with 17 rental replacement units and 30 homeownership units; and 273 off-site rental apartments, including 87 replacement units, located less than a quarter mile away at the former Bruce Monroe School.
“This project is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fulfill the promises made to the Park Morton residents while addressing the ongoing need for affordable housing,” said Buwa Binitie, Founder and CEO of Dantes Partners. “Seeing this vision come to life is deeply gratifying. The process has been one of persistence, collaboration, and purpose, and the outcome reflects the collective dedication of everyone involved. This achievement would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our partners, whose shared passion and hard work helped turn this vision into reality.”
“With the opening of Park Morton Apartments, DCHA and its partners are delivering on our commitment to provide high-quality affordable housing that fosters community and establishes a foundation for District families to thrive,” said Raymond Skinner, DCHA Board Chair.
DMPED invested approximately $14.8 million towards phase 1 infrastructure, as well as $26.3 million for predevelopment and infrastructure for phase 2. The new five-story building was also funded by $51.1 million in tax-exempt bonds issued by the DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA).
Park Morton Apartments is the latest new construction property built under NCI, a District government program creating vibrant mixed-income neighborhoods. Park Morton is one of four NCI projects, along with ‘Rise at Temple Courts’ in Northwest One, which officially opened in Ward 6 in late 2022. There’s also Lincoln Heights and Richardson Dwellings in Ward 7, with ‘Providence Place and The Strand Residences’ – two 100% affordable housing communities where 179 units were delivered; including 63 through NCI; and, Barry Farm in Ward 8, where construction of the 139-unit Edmonson is underway and The Asberry, a 108-unit mixed-use property, opened in late 2024.