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.
For media inquiries, please contact:
David Greer
Director of Communications
(202) 550-1381 or dgreer@clpha.org.
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For Immediate Release
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“The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities is pleased House Democrats addressed concerns of large public housing authorities in the HEROES Act with increased funding for rental assistance for those who are at the greatest risk for homelessness and housing insecurity. The bill authorizes $4 billion in additional funding for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance with $1 billion of that designated for new temporary assistance for households who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, or who are fleeing domestic violence. The bill also includes $750 million additional funding for Project-Based Rental Assistance, $2 billion in additional funds for the Public Housing Operating Fund, and $100 billion in Emergency Rental Assistance. CLPHA is also pleased with the proposal to protect funding that was shortly due to expire under the Choice Neighborhood Initiative by extending funding through September 30, 2021.
CLPHA will continue to forcefully advocate to policymakers that we as a nation must emerge from this unprecedented pandemic with an unequivocal commitment to address the growing need for rental assistance. “
(202) 550-1381
About the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities |
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Public Housing Authorities Need $8.5 Billion in Emergency COVID-19 Funds Plus Regulatory Relief
CLPHA members are working tirelessly, compassionately, and pragmatically to support low-income households. We urge Congress and HUD to do the same.
WASHINGTON (March 19, 2020) - The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities sent letters to Congressional leaders and U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson today formally requesting $5 billion for the public housing program and $3.5 billion for the housing choice voucher program in emergency supplemental funds and additional regulatory relief for public housing authorities as they work to protect residents and staff during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Sunia Zaterman, Executive Director of the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, issued the following statement after submitting the requests to Congress and HUD:
"Low-income households and the elderly who are served by public and affordable housing have the most to lose during the current COVID-19 public health crisis because they are the most vulnerable to unemployment, lost income, and heartbreakingly, the virus itself.
"To ensure the health and safety of residents, and of staff, public housing authorities are taking unprecedented actions to follow public health protocols, while continuing to provide residents with services ranging from food deliveries to regular property repairs.
"The FY20 operating budget for public housing authorities is wholly inadequate to fund the enormous unforeseen cost of COVID-19 emergency expenses combined with estimated losses in tenant rent payments. CLPHA is requesting $8.5 billion from Congress in emergency supplemental funds and urging HUD to provide public housing authorities with the flexibility to respond to the changing situation as needed.
"Without a commitment from the federal government to support public and affordable housing operations during and after the COVID-19 emergency, millions of households could be left unprotected from the virus and face longer-term housing insecurity.
"CLPHA members are working tirelessly, compassionately, and pragmatically to support low-income households. We urge Congress and HUD to do the same."
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About the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities
The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities is a national non-profit organization that works to preserve and improve public and affordable housing through advocacy, research, policy analysis and public education. CLPHA’s 70 members represent virtually every major metropolitan area in the country. Together they manage 40 percent of the nation’s public housing program; administer more than a quarter of the Housing Choice Voucher program; and operate a wide array of other housing programs. Learn more at clpha.org and on Twitter @CLPHA and follow @housing_is for news on CLPHA’s work to better intersect the housing field and other areas of critical importance such as health and education.
CLPHA Responds to Trump’s Proposed Cuts to Public Housing Budget
In the face of an estimated capital needs backlog of $70 billion, HUD’s budget zeroes out the public housing capital fund, which is used to address the growing physical needs of aging properties.
WASHINGTON (February 10, 2020) - Sunia Zaterman, Executive Director of the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, issued the following statement today in response to President Trump’s FY 2021 Budget proposal, which would slash funding for the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development by more than 15 percent, including a 43 percent cut to public housing funding.
“It is no surprise that this Administration has again proposed to gut funding for our nation’s public housing authorities, which serve more than 3 million low- and very low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities through the public housing and voucher programs.
“In the face of an estimated capital needs backlog of $70 billion, HUD’s budget zeroes out the public housing capital fund, which is used to address the growing physical needs of aging properties.
“In his Budget Brief message, Secretary Carson touts the department’s commitment to resident health and safety with a nominal $90 million increase in funding to address certain hazards including lead, radon, and carbon monoxide. These one-off grants, though welcome, are insufficient and do not comprehensively address the needs of public housing residents or properties.
“We also have serious concerns that HUD’s budget underfunds the Housing Choice Voucher Program and Project-Based Rental Assistance so inadequately that as many as 160,000 households could lose voucher funding.
“The proposal additionally attempts to reintroduce rent increases and work requirements, two controversial polices that lack support from advocates and housing leaders.
“Some bright spots in the budget include increases to the Family Self-Sufficiency Program and Jobs-Plus, and a request of $100 million for the RAD program, which enables public housing authorities to convert public housing units to the Section 8 funding platform.
“But these improvements are meaningless if there are not enough resources to operate the public housing properties or to dramatically improve property conditions for residents living there.”
“Congress has previously rejected draconian budgets that shred our safety net, and we call on them to do so again.”
About the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities
The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities is a national non-profit organization that works to preserve and improve public and affordable housing through advocacy, research, policy analysis and public education. CLPHA’s 70 members represent virtually every major metropolitan area in the country. Together they manage 40 percent of the nation’s public housing program; administer more than a quarter of the Housing Choice Voucher program; and operate a wide array of other housing programs. Learn more at clpha.org and on Twitter @CLPHA and follow @housing_is for news on CLPHA’s work to better intersect the housing field and other areas of critical importance such as health and education.
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From the Cambridge Housing Authority's website:
CHA’s Resident Services department has taken a pioneering step lately towards digital inclusion with the recent launch of a specialized intergenerational computer training and internet access program for senior residents being served at select CHA properties. Thanks to a generous grant from Google, this initiative has opened doors to a world of digital opportunities for the elderly members of our community.
The program’s success is evident in the enthusiasm shown by residents, leading to the implementation of two consecutive six-week training sessions. Each session comprised 12 workshops facilitated by proficient upper-level Work Force Program youth interns. These interns, equipped with expertise from the Tech Goes Home platform, collaborated closely with the Work Force’s Career Development Specialist, James Pierre (pictured above), and the Service Coordinator at Millers River Apartments, Yaw Adjei-Koranteng. Together, they meticulously crafted modules tailored to the unique needs of senior residents who may have limited experience with computers and the internet.
Previously, a successful cycle of this program ran at Manning Apartments in Central Square, Cambridge.
The trainings were designed to cover the essentials of internet navigation, while also emphasizing the practical applications and security measures crucial for safe online experiences. Recognizing the importance of personalized attention, each cohort was limited to a maximum of 12 seniors. This ensured that every participant received the guidance they needed to thrive in the digital landscape.
Upon completion of the program, each graduate was presented with a new Chromebook, generously provided by Tech Goes Home. These devices serve as gateways to continued learning and connectivity, empowering seniors to stay engaged and connected in today’s digital world.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents expressing gratitude for the newfound knowledge and confidence gained through the program. Many noted significant improvements in their ability to utilize the internet and the Google suite of programs effectively.
Through initiatives like CHA’s computer literacy program, supported by Google and other partners, we are bridging the digital divide and empowering seniors to embrace technology with confidence. As we celebrate the achievements of our recent graduates, we look forward to continuing our mission of digital inclusion for all members of our community.
From the Housing Authority of Baltimore City's press release:
Today, the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) joined with elected officials, McCormack Baron Salazar (MBS), development and community partners, and residents to celebrate the completion of Phase 1 of Perkins Square, formerly known as Perkins Homes, providing 103 new mixed-income housing units.
Perkins Phase 1 is part of the mixed-use, multi-phase redevelopment of the Perkins, Somerset, Oldtown (PSO) Transformation that is made possible with the support of $40 million in Choice Neighborhood Implementation grants awarded to HABC since 2018. The total PSO redevelopment includes one-for-one replacement of the Perkins public housing units interspersed with workforce and market rate units.
The Perkins Square community will encompass 796 of the total 1,651 new mixed-income units being developed across the entire PSO. MBS is the lead development partner for Perkins Square, working in concert with Beatty Development and Cross Street Partners.
“Providing affordable and low-income housing is critical for our communities,” said Janet Abrahams, HABC’s President and CEO. “HABC, along with its partners, has collaboratively demonstrated a commitment to neighborhood revitalization through redevelopments like Perkins Square.”
“We thank Mayor Scott and HABC for the opportunity to support the transformation of Perkins where families and children may thrive,” said Vince Bennett, President, McCormack Baron Salazar. “One of the greatest needs in our cities is high quality affordable housing and through public-private partnerships and leveraging public resources and combined with private debt and equity, the choice neighborhoods program can help achieve great outcomes and support community resiliency.”
The community includes a mix of replacement public housing, additional affordable housing, and market-rate rental housing. Phase 1 has accessibility and vision/hearing-impaired units within a range of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Amenities and features include internet access, community kitchen, in-unit washer and dryer, on-site leasing center and supportive services office, computer lab, a fitness center, underground parking, and a playground.
As part of the ribbon-cutting celebration, HABC, MBS, and partners hosted a block party to welcome back Perkins Square residents. The festivities included guided tours of common areas and staged units, food trucks, music, games for all ages, and vending tables for community partners and local businesses to provide information and resources. Participants included state and local officials, development team partners and representatives from the Perkins Tenant Council, City Springs School and residents.
Phase 1 is one of nine phases for Perkins Square. On its heels, will be the completion of Perkins Phase 2, set for delivery in Fall 2024. That phase will feature 156 mixed-income rental units, with 76 set aside for legacy Perkins residents.
Originally built in 1942, Perkins Homes had outlived its useful life such that its complete demolition was necessary. Construction for Phase 1 of Perkins Square began August 2022, led by Commercial Construction, a local minority led firm.
Kevin Johnson, CEO of Commercial Construction, said "This project has been a beacon of opportunity, putting Baltimoreans to work and opening doors for numerous MWBE firms. We are proud that our team prioritized local minority partnerships, reflecting our commitment to community and economic empowerment. The quality of construction goes beyond physical structures—it respects and uplifts the dignity of every resident, setting a new standard for what affordable housing should represent.”
The project, designed by Hord Coplan Macht, has received the 2022 American Institute of Architects Chesapeake Bay Chapter Honor Award, the 2022 American Institute of Architects Maryland Chapter Unbuilt Award, and the Maryland Building Industry Association Award for exceptional affordable housing design.
Visit the PSO Transformation page for more information about the entire project.
From NBC 4 Los Angeles:
Vanessa Bryant joined Nickerson Gardens residents Monday for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of refurbished gym at the public housing community in Watts.
Nickerson Gardens, managed by the Housing Authority of Los Angeles, was chosen for the project by the widow of Kobe Bryant and the Lakers. The decision was made, in part, because it's the former site of the Boys and Girls Club where Kobe Bryant hosted his "Mamba League" youth basketball program.
"The site is a special location for my family," Vanessa Bryant said. "He used basketball to teach life lessons to young boys and girls.
"It serves as a reminder to all the boys and girls who play here that they are loved."
From the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles' website:
On Wednesday, May 1, 2024, the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) joined Mercy Housing California to celebrate the grand opening of 6th Street Place. Located at 401 E. 6th Street in Los Angeles' 14th Council District, there are 93 Project Based Voucher Units and one Manager unit. Developed by Mercy Housing California designed by TCA Architects and Relm and built by Suffolk Construction, 6th St Place is specifically designed to accommodate homeless individuals. The designs feature modular constructions sustainably built with cost-effective strategies that support the local community. On-site programming and support services for residents are provided by The People Concern, including case management, physical and mental healthcare, legal services, employment training, and peer support. HACLA's estimated project contribution is $56.8 million in HAP over the 20-year contract.
From the San Diego Housing Commission's press release:
More than 120 seniors with low income, including several with medical frailties, who otherwise may struggle financially in San Diego’s high-cost housing market now have homes with affordable rent at Levant Senior Cottages, a development in collaboration with the San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) that celebrated its grand opening today.
“I’m not going to call it an apartment. I’m calling it a home. I can’t believe the quality of it,” said Earl, a cancer survivor who will receive rental assistance from SDHC at Levant Senior Cottages. “I have a place here I can be proud of – a place where I can put up my children’s pictures. I can decorate. There’s actually room to put a TV, which I haven’t had in some time.”
Levant Senior Cottages in the Linda Vista community consists of 126 affordable rental apartments for seniors ages 55 and older with low-income. These units will remain affordable for the next 55 years. There is also one manager’s unit.
“We must be honest about the crisis our region is facing and decide when enough is enough. Today, we are seeing the very first property to open doors on land offered by the County through an initiative to use excess County sites to develop affordable housing. This also a first step for many more positive projects to come,” said County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe, whose district includes Linda Vista, where Levant Senior Cottages was built. “We know that we must do more—we don’t have a choice—we must do more to alleviate the housing burdens for all the people in our region.”
Developed by Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation in partnership with San Diego Kind, Levant Senior Cottages was built on land owned by the County of San Diego and leased to the development for $1 per year for 70 years. The 4.5-acre site formerly housed a County child welfare center and later became an empty lot.
SDHC awarded 70 rental housing vouchers to Levant Senior Cottages, which is fully leased, to assist residents with their rent. The housing vouchers are tied to the development. When a resident moves on, the voucher remains with the unit to help another senior.
“The blueprint to help us address this crisis is collaboratives like this one,” SDHC Chair of the Board Eugene “Mitch” Mitchell said. “The collaborative—as part of the blueprint for success that will allow us as a community, as a City, to truly address this crisis—must continue. And so, today is a happy day, but I’m excited because I have a feeling that because of collaborations like this, we’re going to have a bunch of happy days in the future.”
SDHC also authorized the issuance of $22.9 million in tax-exempt Housing Authority Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds and $19.7 million in taxable bonds toward the financing for the development. The San Diego City Council, in its role as the Housing Authority of the City of San Diego, approved the bonds. SDHC, the City of San Diego and the Housing Authority of the City of San Diego are not financially liable for the bonds. Private sources of funds, such as revenue from the development, are used to repay the bonds.
Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation served as the lead developer, managing the entitlement phase, financing, design, and construction, and provides ongoing asset management and oversight of resident services at the property.
“So many seniors in San Diego are in crisis, with over 50 percent paying more than half of their income toward rent, struggling to live off fixed incomes while costs are anything but,” Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation President and CEO Rebecca Louie said. “Our seniors are living on the edge no safety net to catch them. But projects like this are that safety net.”
Financing for Levant Senior Cottages also included $19 million from the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Multifamily Housing Program.
“As the nation continues to face an unprecedented housing crisis, California is leading the way and delivering innovative programs to support and protect our most vulnerable residents while creating long-term affordable housing. We are working to end homelessness, increase housing production and preserve affordable housing for years to come,” said California Department of Housing and Community Development Super Notice of Funding Availability Section Chief Melissa Harty-Swaleh.
The rental units at Levant Senior Cottages will be affordable for seniors with income ranging from 25 percent of San Diego’s Area Median Income (AMI), currently $26,550 per year for a one-person household, to 50 percent of AMI, currently $53,050 per year for a one-person household. The new development includes 32 units set aside for seniors identified as frail whose income is extremely low – all of whom will be among the Levant Senior Cottages residents receiving rental assistance from SDHC.
Rents range from $603 to $1,206 per month and will not exceed 30 percent of a resident’s income, according to Wakeland Housing. The utilities for all residential units and the common areas will be paid by the building’s owner.
The design includes 18 single-story “bungalow” type buildings arranged around 2 elevator-serviced two-story buildings connected by a walkway and one large community building that will host on-site services and social activities for residents. Common areas include a large outdoor patio, computer lab, kitchen, laundry room facilities, and space for workshops, classes, community events and social activities.
Units, which range in size from 300 to 500 square feet, include a refrigerator, electric range and oven, storage, a full bathroom, and a patio or balcony.
St. Paul’s Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) will provide wraparound medical and social services for eligible frail and elderly residents at the community. These services include primary medical and specialty care, dental, optometry, prescription drug coverage, nutritious meals and home care services.
Wakeland Housing will also provide resident services and social activities for all residents.