The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network) joined housing advocates nationwide in urging Congress to ensure that the “Build Back Better” Act’s historic investments in rental assistance, public housing, and the Housing Trust Fund remain in any budget reconciliation package. New Jersey’s Members of Congress joined advocates in a Twitter campaign to “show housing love.”

“This #ValentinesDay, Democrats have a love note for workers, families and the planet. It’s called the Build Back Better Act, and it includes historic funding for affordable, sustainable housing. Housing is a human right — it’s time to #ShowHousingLove and pass BBB,” wrote U.S. Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

“Let’s show America love this Valentine’s Day by making sure all our neighbors have a home. It’s time to #PassBuildBackBetter with $150 billion in fair & affordable housing investments. #ShowHousingLove,” wrote U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (D-4).

The “Build Back Better” Act which was passed in the U.S. House of Representatives but has stalled in the U.S. Senate includes:

•$25 billion to expand rental assistance to more than 300,000 households;
•$65 billion to preserve public housing for its 2.5 million residents; and
•$15 billion for the national Housing Trust Fund to build and preserve over 150,000 affordable, accessible homes for households with the lowest incomes.

“The number of American households struggling to make ends meet and those dealing with homelessness is overwhelming,” said Network President and Chief Executive Officer Staci Berger. “Housing insecurity is a severe problem in our country and requires immediate attention. Whatever spending package Congress passes, it must fully invest in housing.”

The Network has launched a campaign, HouseNJ, calling for housing investments in “Build Back Better” as well as urging NJ elected officials to invest $975 million from the American Rescue Plan into critical housing programs such as the NJ Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program, and the State Rental Assistance Program to name a few.

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 250 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.