Trenton Rally 2003

Housing is a key investment

To stand up and voice outrage and concern, more than 400 people attended a Housing Rally on June 12, “Housing, A Key Investment”. Amidst the shouts of “We need housing” and the jangling of 1000 keys, tenants and representatives addressed the group, sharing the effect loss of decent, affordable housing has had on their lives.

In New Jersey, an extremely low income household (earning $21,918, 30% of the Area Median Income of $73,059) can afford monthly rent of no more than $548, while the Fair Market Rent for a two-bedroom unit is $980.

A SSI recipient (receiving $576 monthly) can afford monthly rent of no more than $173, while the Fair Market Rent for a one-bedroom unit is $810.

Even if low-income families or people with disabilities were to be fortunate enough to obtain rental subsidies, there is no affordable housing to be found.

In the midst of this housing crisis, the state government is planning to cut $25 million from the Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (HMFA), which could amount to the loss of 1000 units of affordable housing development.

Collaborative Support Programs and the Housing and Community Development Network were the key organizers of the rally. Many of our tenants, self-help center members and staff attended. We added visual impact and flavor to the rally by providing one giant puppet, which stood tall, chanted and protested with all who attended, courtesy of Paul Dos Santos and Patti Holland! Spiral Q, a puppet theatre company based in Philadelphia, donated the puppet (www.spiralq.org). We and recognize the vital role housing plays in one’s recovery and well-being. We are strong in our commitment to ensure the availability of decent, affordable housing.

To see the pictures from the Trenton Rally click here

Article by Patti Holland (Director of Community Development)
and edited by Paul Dos Santos (Community Development Associate)

If you would like to send a story, picture or any other kind of contribution to this web site, please click here.