PHILADELPHIA, PA — Senator Vincent Hughes, the Democratic Appropriations Chair, announced this week that $7.3 million from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Authority (PHFA) will fund affordable housing projects in Philadelphia and Montgomery County.
“These PHARE funds are going to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals with a fundamental need—housing,” Hughes said. “I’m proud to see 37 projects in the 7th district receive funding that will increase access to affordable housing in our communities. Without a home, a safe and welcoming place to lay your head at night, it’s very difficult to maintain a job, get an education, and take care of a family. When we make affordable housing a priority, we set the stage for a domino effect of opportunity and upward progress in our neighborhoods.”
The PHFA has allocated a total of $64.8 million in PHARE funding for fiscal year 2023-24 to support 322 housing and community development initiatives across Pennsylvania. This funding aims to address the critical need for affordable housing, a concern that has grown increasingly urgent in recent years.
In 2022, Senator Hughes and other Senate Democrats successfully advocated for a historic $65 million increase in PHARE funds, alongside other budget boosts for affordable housing investments. Their efforts resulted in the largest increase in affordable housing funding in Pennsylvania’s history.
The grant recipients in the 7th District are a diverse group of organizations dedicated to providing various forms of housing assistance and community support. They include Access Services, Action Wellness, and the Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania, among others. These organizations work on the front lines to ensure that residents have access to safe, affordable housing and the necessary resources to improve their quality of life.
Projects funded by these grants will range from constructing new affordable housing units to providing services that help residents maintain their homes. This comprehensive approach aims to tackle the problem of housing insecurity from multiple angles, ensuring that more people can find stable, long-term solutions.
Creating Strong Communities: The Power of Affordable Housing
Affordable housing is a cornerstone of community stability. Without it, individuals and families struggle to find the footing needed to lead productive lives. By securing this funding, Senator Hughes and his colleagues are making strides toward creating more secure and resilient communities.
The impact of these funds extends beyond just providing shelter. Stable housing allows individuals to focus on other critical aspects of their lives, such as employment, education, and family care. It fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for the overall health and well-being of residents.
Senator Hughes’ announcement highlights the ongoing efforts to address housing needs in Pennsylvania. As the state continues to allocate resources to affordable housing projects, it sets a precedent for how government can play a pivotal role in supporting its most vulnerable populations.
These investments in affordable housing represent a commitment to building a better future for all Pennsylvanians. By prioritizing housing, the state is laying the groundwork for broader social and economic progress, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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