On the announcement that President Trump will deploy the National Guard in Washington, D.C. to remove homeless residents, Housing and Community Development Network of NJ President and Chief Executive Officer Staci Berger issued the following statement:

"Deploying the National Guard to target people experiencing homelessness in our nation’s capital is a dangerous and disgraceful escalation. It is not a crime to be homeless. This militarized response does nothing to solve the housing crisis, it only deepens the trauma for those already struggling.

"At the same time, the President is leading efforts to dismantle the federal safety net, slashing investments and resources that help families stay safe and stably housed. Instead of criminalizing poverty, our leaders should be investing in proven solutions that ensure everyone has a safe place to call home.”

About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ

The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is the statewide association of more than 270 community development corporations, individuals and other organizations that support the creation of affordable homes, economic opportunities, and strong communities. For more information on the Network, visit www.hcdnnj.org.