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David Greer
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CLPHA Applauds Appointment of Greg Russ to Lead New York City Housing Authority
Greg Russ is the right leader at the right time to oversee NYCHA and tackle the unique challenges facing the nation's largest and oldest public housing authority.
WASHINGTON (June 19, 2019) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the City of New York yesterday announced the appointment of Gregory Russ to serve as the next Chair of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA).
Sunia Zaterman, Executive Director of the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA) issued the following statement in support of the city's selection of Russ, who is the current CEO/Executive Director of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) and a member of CLPHA's Board of Directors:
"Greg Russ is the right leader at the right time to oversee NYCHA and tackle the challenges facing the nation's largest and oldest public housing authority. Greg is a distinguished public housing executive and proven change maker who has led with innovation to positively transform affordable housing for residents and communities. He is uniquely qualified for this position because of his experience as the Director of Troubled Agency Recovery and his work at the Chicago and Philadelphia housing authorities.
"Throughout his career, Greg has shown a commitment to preserving and improving the public housing stock while promoting self sufficiency and economic opportunities for HUD-assisted families in PHAs across the nation. In addition to his leadership in the field, Greg is considered a national expert on public housing policy.
"CLPHA applauds Mayor Bill de Blasio's selection of Greg Russ to serve as NYCHA's next chair and we look forward to supporting Greg in his new role."
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 Housing Is Initiative to better insect the housing field and other areas of critical importance such as health and education.
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FY20 Funding Bill from the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Includes Robust Funding Increases and Legislative Language to Prevent HUD from Evicting Mixed-Status Immigrant Families
WASHINGTON (May 22, 2019) - In preparation for a subcommittee markup on the morning of May 23, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies (THUD) today released their FY20 funding bill. According to the subcommittee proposal, the discretionary funding level for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) totals $50.1 billion, an increase of $5.9 billion above the FY19 enacted level, and $13.4 billion above President Trump’s request.
The Executive Director of the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, Sunia Zaterman, issued the following statement in support of the bill:
“In a familiar pattern and reprise of repudiating Trump Administration budget proposals, the House THUD budget reflects Congress’ continuing commitment to fund critically important housing and community development programs the Administration proposed rescinding, cutting, or eliminating in its budget request.
“CLPHA is pleased that under the leadership of THUD Subcommittee Chairman David Price (D-NC) and Ranking Member Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), the THUD proposal increases – in several instances substantially increases – or level funds programs critical to communities served by public housing authorities.
“In addition to robust funding increases, such as the doubling of Choice Neighborhoods to $300 million and fully funding the Section 8 account, the proposal includes legislative language to prevent HUD from evicting mixed-status immigrant families from public housing, and to prohibit HUD from unilaterally changing the public housing annual contributions contract without public input and following the administrative procedures act process. Importantly, mandatory rent increases and work requirements were not included in the subcommittee’s bill.
“We applaud the subcommittee for its ongoing commitment to public and affordable housing and look forward to working with the Chair and Ranking Member in support of this bill.”
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 Housing Is Initiative to better intersect the housing field and other areas of critical importance such as health and education.
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Public Housing is as much a part of the national infrastructure as Route 66, the Lincoln Tunnel, and the Hoover Dam.
WASHINGTON (April 30, 2019) - Today the House Committee on Financial Services held a hearing entitled “Housing in America: Assessing the Infrastructure Needs of America’s Housing Stock” to examine the need for investment in affordable housing infrastructure--including public housing—and investigate additional barriers to developing affordable housing.
Sunia Zaterman, the executive director of the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, issued the following statement after watching the hearing and reviewing draft legislation circulated by Chairwoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) that would authorize funding for several housing infrastructure projects, including $70 billion for the Public Housing Capital Fund:
“Public housing is as a much a part of the national infrastructure as Route 66, the Lincoln Tunnel, and the Hoover Dam. Public housing helps communities and families thrive by providing more than one million low- and very-low income families, children, elderly and persons with disabilities with a stable place to live, connecting low-income workers to economic opportunities, and spurring regional job creation and economic growth.
“But, years of chronic underfunding have led to the deterioration of the public housing stock and since 1990, at least 300,000 units have been lost because of the lack of adequate resources to maintain them. The federal disinvestment in public housing has contributed to an untenable shortage of stable housing for low-income households.
“A reinvestment in public housing should include adequate funding to preserve and improve the public housing stock. Equally important is thoughtful consideration about additional tools that public housing authorities can use to modernize and develop affordable housing to meet the needs of residents and local communities. Expanding the Rental Assistance Demonstration program and increasing the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit allocations, for example, would support public housing authorities’ recapitalization and redevelopment efforts.
“Housing is infrastructure and we thank the Chairwoman and the Committee for underscoring the importance of public housing during today’s hearing and in the Housing is Infrastructure Act of 2019.”
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 insect the housing field and other areas of critical importance such as health and education.
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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.