Welcome to CLPHA's Press Room
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David Greer
Director of Communications
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Statement From Council of Large Public Housing
Authorities Executive Director Sunia Zaterman
Washington, DC – “The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), representing more than 70 of the country’s largest and most innovative housing authorities, is calling on Congress to reject the Trump Administration’s FY18 budget, which proposes to slash $6.2 billion in funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including $2 billion in cuts to public housing. If realized, the draconian cuts included in this budget would not only have severe and cumulative effects on public and affordable housing programs across the country, but it would also shred the safety net of other public assistance programs on which many low-income Americans rely.
“The Trump Administration’s full FY18 budget proposal, released today, Tuesday, May 23, would devastate HUD programs that are currently helping over 1.2 million households that reside in public housing, including families, seniors, persons with disabilities, and close to 800,000 children. The budget targets America’s most vulnerable citizens with drastic cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), while also slashing disability benefits and student loan and education programs, thereby crippling essential support systems affecting many of the residents we serve in low-income housing.
“The Administration’s dramatic HUD reductions come at a time when the federal government should actually be investing in public housing as part of the nation’s infrastructure, as such investment generates economic growth, creates jobs, bolsters productivity, and generates tax revenue for localities.
“The budget proposes $628 million for the Public Housing Capital Fund compared to $1.942 billion in FY17; $3.9 billion for the Public Housing Operating Fund compared to $4.4 billion in FY17; $17.584 billion for Section 8 voucher renewals compared to $18.355 billion in FY17; and $1.55 billion for administrative fees compared to $1.65 billion in FY17.
“Everyone should be alarmed by the magnitude of these proposed cuts -- the Public Housing Capital Fund alone sustains a cut of over 67 percent. The irony of this particular cut is that it not only undermines basic health and safety improvements, it also makes it virtually impossible to leverage private investment, which HUD claims is a major policy priority.
“Another example is the proposed $771 million reduction to the Housing Choice Voucher program, which provides housing vouchers to needy families. These budget reductions, coupled with rising rents and inflation, will result in the loss of hundreds of thousands of vouchers and threaten currently-housed families with homelessness.
“CLPHA and the nation’s largest public housing authorities are asking members of Congress to reject the cuts proposed by the Trump Administration, as they will significantly harm our most vulnerable citizens and undermine our already significant public investment in this affordable housing stock.”
The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), representing more than 70 of the country’s largest and most innovative housing authorities, calls on the Administration and Congress to reject the draconian proposal to slash more than $6 billion in funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including $2 billion in cuts to public housing.
There are over 1.2 million households currently residing in public housing. Seniors and persons with disabilities constitute over half of all residents, and there are over 600,000 children residing in public housing. Public housing cuts will fall directly on the shoulders of residents currently residing in public housing and reduce opportunities for millions of families languishing on waiting lists across the country.
The public housing capital fund provides modernization and rehabilitation funding for the 1.2 million unit public housing portfolio. The reported cut to the capital fund of $1.3 billion represents close to a 70% reduction from last year’s funding level. These proposed cuts will dramatically accelerate the current estimated loss of 10,000 to 12,000 public housing units already lost annually due to chronic underfunding.
The public housing operating fund covers day-to-day operational and maintenance expenses not covered by resident rents. The reported cut to the operating fund of $600 million is a 13% percent reduction from last year, and approximately 72% of what is needed. This funding level will have a devastating impact on the ability to operate and maintain this housing and severely endanger the health, wellbeing, and safety of our most vulnerable children, families, and seniors reliant on housing assistance.
These cuts directly contradict the findings of the congressionally-mandated 2010 HUD study on the backlog of public housing capital repair needs estimated at $26 billion and annual accruing capital needs estimated at $3.4 billion. HUD’s budget does not come close to meeting the annual need and contributes to the growing backlog need.
The tenant based rental assistance program which provides housing vouchers to needy families will also experience a $300 million reduction according to the reports on the budget. This cut coupled with rising rents and inflation will result in the loss of hundreds of thousands of vouchers and threaten currently housed families with homelessness.
We call on the Administration and Congress to reject these draconian cuts that will harm our most vulnerable citizens and undermine our already significant public investment in this affordable housing stock.
Statement From Council of Large Public Housing Authorities Executive Director Sunia Zaterman
The Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, which represents 70 of the nation’s largest public housing authorities (PHAs) in cities across the United States, congratulates Dr. Ben Carson on his nomination as Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Housing stability is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty for families, and our nation’s PHAs have been on the front lines of this fight, helping to develop creative solutions to our housing crisis, and implementing these ideas in their communities.
CLPHA looks to Dr. Carson to advocate for adequate funding for housing programs, to support implementation of innovative programs on the local level, including the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) and Moving to Work (MTW), and to provide PHAs with the tools to promote the cross-sector partnerships that connect housing to health, education and other sectors to lift families out of poverty.
As someone who spent part of his upbringing in public housing, Dr. Carson represents the promise to create opportunity and lift people out of poverty. We look forward to working with him and HUD to provide safe, decent, and affordable rental housing to low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
From the Cambridge Housing Authority's press release:
The Board of Commissioners of the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) voted unanimously to appoint Clara Fraden as the agency’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). CHA is charged with providing deeply affordable housing and housing subsidies to over 13,500 individuals in and around Cambridge. Fraden will become the first woman to lead CHA as chief administrator. Her appointment will take effect on March 30, 2026.
“The CHA Board of Commissioners is excited to announce CHA’s new CEO,” said CHA Board Chairperson Elaine DeRosa. “Ms. Fraden brings more than a decade of community development and organizational leadership experience. She has a deep understanding of Cambridge and our communities, a passion for identifying new housing opportunities, and respect for the people the housing authority serves. We know Ms. Fraden will lead CHA’s affordable housing initiatives with excellence and care.”
In accepting the appointment, Fraden said, “Housing is a human right and the foundation of a strong community. CHA is a national leader, proof of what the public sector can achieve with sustained investment, strong infrastructure, and deeply committed residents and staff. I am grateful to Mike and my predecessors, colleagues, residents and neighbors, and many city, state, and federal partners for the foundation they’ve built. I look forward to building on that work to preserve, strengthen, and grow communities where everyone can thrive.”
Fraden, who has a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from the Harvard Graduate School of Design, has spent the past eight years at CHA in roles of increasing responsibility. As a Project Manager, she led efforts to preserve and create more than 1,200 homes across Cambridge. Most recently, Fraden served as Director of Planning, where she guided a multidisciplinary team advancing a redevelopment pipeline exceeding $1 billion throughout Massachusetts.
As CEO, Fraden brings a deep commitment to resident-centered leadership and public accountability, with a collaborative approach that has earned trust among residents, staff, and public and private partners at all levels. Her work pairs large-scale public housing redevelopment with initiatives that strengthen resident stability and well-being. During her tenure at CHA, she has spearheaded health and housing efforts, including expanding access to fresh, healthy food, embedding healthcare professionals onsite, and leading CHA’s expansion into permanent supportive housing.
“Clara makes herself available, listens intently, and works tirelessly to find the most impactful way to serve residents’ needs,” said Kenny Correia, a Cambridge firefighter and registered nurse at Cambridge Health Alliance, who has partnered with CHA to improve healthcare access for residents. “Clara is an effective leader who truly cares. She brings out the best in everyone.”
Fraden is also a Cambridge resident and a mother, bringing both professional expertise and a personal connection to the residents CHA serves.
Jean Hannon, a CHA resident and member of the Alliance of Cambridge Tenants, spoke at the board meeting confirming Fraden’s appointment: “I thank the commissioners for the time and energy everyone has put into this search process, and for selecting such a talented and energetic individual as CEO. I’d also like to let Clara know how grateful I am that she’s decided to pursue this role. I’m looking forward to working with her.”
Fraden will succeed Executive Director Michael J. Johnston, who is retiring after 34 years of dedicated service to CHA, including more than nine years as Executive Director. “I am happy to see the Board has appointed someone whom I know will work hard to continue the foundation and successes created by those who sat in the seat before me and the incredible CHA workforce,” said Johnston.
The Board of Commissioners expressed deep gratitude to Johnston for his steady and exceptional leadership, his commitment to residents and staff, and the strong institutional foundation he leaves behind. CHA thanks the Board of Commissioners for leading a thoughtful and inclusive search process, as well as the staff and residents whose input helped inform this important decision.
From the NYCHA Journal:
Supporting a neighbor, friend, or family member through a mental health challenge is everyone’s duty. Building on that shared responsibility and care, NYCHA hosted its first-ever Community Mental Health Summit on December 6, 2025, at The New School, bringing together residents, community leaders, service providers, and City agency partners for a day of learning, connection, and healing.
The Summit focused on deepening understanding of mental health and wellbeing while strengthening the ability to prevent and respond to mental health needs across NYCHA communities. It was organized in partnership with the NYCHA Mental Health Task Force, which brings together residents and partners to advance access to mental health and wellbeing supports that decrease stigma and nurture health, opportunity, and empowerment.
Approximately 90 attendees participated in the Summit’s interactive workshops, storytelling, and resource-building. Workshop topics included intergenerational trauma and healing practices, mental health 101 and education and awareness, substance use and recovery, supporting NYCHA’s youth, and crisis prevention and response.
The Summit was kicked off with words from Dr. Paul Archibald, who grew up at NYCHA’s Mariner’s Harbor development and is an associate professor, Master of Social Work program director, and Chair of the Department of Social Work at CUNY’s College of Staten Island. “One in 16 New Yorkers is a NYCHA resident,” Dr. Archibald said. “Today we gather together to make a change. We can actually lead the way for all New Yorkers to build community that supports mental health.”
Facilitators and speakers represented a wide range of expertise and lived experience, including NYCHA Resident Health Initiatives staff, resident leaders, academic partners, City agencies, and community-based organizations. Partners who hosted the Summit included The New School Center for Global Mental Health, the Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health, and the NYC Health Department.
Shetara Turner, a NYCHA resident who is also the Smoke-Free NYCHA Senior Liaison, gave a presentation at the Summit. “Today, we learned about how mental health and healing happens in a community,” she said. “It’s important to know about available resources. You never know when you can help connect a neighbor or family member or friend.”
In a post-Summit survey, more than 90 percent of the respondents indicated that because of the Summit they feel better equipped to prevent or respond to a mental health crisis. Participants also said:
- “I feel more prepared because it reminds me that mental health resources are powerful ways to impact not just one person but the network they belong to.
- “I feel equipped to be a beacon of information.”
- “I can help others understand they’re not alone.”
- “I definitely feel equipped to assist and help these crises.”
NYCHA resident Norma Alexander echoed her fellow residents’ feelings about the resources provided: “The presentation on prevention and response was amazing. This is the level of information I have been seeking.”
NYCHA Community Mental Health Partnership Manager Stephen Antony Beasley, who helped organize the event, said the Summit “was an amazing day of passion, caring, listening, and learning; it is my great hope that residents and partners continue to grow work to build awareness and education, community wellness, and crisis prevention and response to build sustainable approaches that improve community mental health and wellbeing across NYCHA communities.”
From WPXI Pittsburgh:
A new housing community is available for senior members of the LGBTQ+ community in Pittsburgh.
Mosaic Apartments is on Forbes Avenue in Oakland, on property donated by UPMC and Pitt.
It is meant to offer adorable housing to seniors in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.
The apartment is the first of its kind in Western Pennsylvania and only the second like it in the state. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Nov. 25.
“This day represents a first step forward in addressing the housing needs of an underserved population,” said Jim Pieffer, President and CEO of Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. “There is an urgent need for safe, welcoming spaces where LGBTQ+ seniors and their allies can thrive without fear of discrimination or exclusion.”
Those behind the project say they’re looking toward future communities as well.
“We also hope that this new community will spur people in existing apartment complexes to make them more LGBTQ friendly and more welcoming in the future as well,” Pieffer said.
The $28.5 million development was funded by public and private partners, including: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, Huntington National Bank, U.S. Bank, National Equity Fund, and the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh and 20 other foundations.
Read WPXI Pittsburgh's article "New affordable housing community opens for LGBTQ+ seniors in Pittsburgh."
3,000+ Jobs Created for Residents and Community Members
Rep. Maxine Waters Gives Remarks at Celebration Event
From the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles' press release:
The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) joined local and federal leaders, business partners, community advocates, and residents to celebrate the 10th anniversary of HACLA’s Section 3 program. The milestone event---held at Jordan Downs’ Kalmia Rose apartments--- a flagship development in partnership with BRIDGE Housing--- served as a powerful testament to the program’s role as a vital economic engine for our city.
A federal initiative of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Section 3 ensures that when public dollars are used to build or improve communities, the economic benefits stay local. By partnering with contractors and developers, HACLA’s Section 3 program transforms construction sites into classrooms and job sites into careers—prioritizing employment, training, and scholarships for low-income residents.
“Over the past ten years, HACLA’s Section 3 program has proven public investment is most powerful when it acts as an economic multiplier,” said Lourdes Castro Ramírez, HACLA President & CEO. “We aren’t just building housing we are fueling economic opportunity. By creating 3,000 jobs and reinvesting in residents' education, we are ensuring that funds circulate back in the pockets of our families and neighborhoods. This is how we move from public investment to lasting upward mobility!”
A Decade of Impact by the Numbers:
- 3,000+ jobs created for residents and community members.
- $23 million awarded to Section 3-certified businesses.
- $270,000+ in college scholarships for Public Housing and Section 8 residents.
- $10,000+ provided for vocational tuition, certifications, and union dues.
- 30+ financial literacy and construction-related training programs hosted.
“We can see that Section 3 is working and HACLA has done this exceptionally well. When we look at the jobs that HACLA has created, these numbers are extraordinary,” said Congresswoman Maxine Waters. “This program and its success are proof that when you work hard, and you believe that every human being deserves to be respected and have a decent quality of life, you can make it happen.”
This impact is sustained by a robust network of public-private partnerships.
“What we’ve been able to accomplish over the last ten years through the Section 3 program is remarkable,” said HACLA Board Chair Cielo Castro. “As Section 3 continues to grow, so will the opportunities it creates, for residents ready to work, for families building stability, and for communities that deserve investments. We’ve accomplished a lot together, but the work continues. I’m excited about the next ten years as HACLA creates more opportunities, more mobility, and stronger communities.”
Over the last decade, HACLA has collaborated with key partners including BRIDGE Housing, Portrait Construction, TMO, Walton Construction, Primestor Development, Related California, Staples, EFI Global, Reno & Cavanaugh, PLLC, and U.S. Bank to bridge the gap between housing and economic opportunity.
“EFI Global is proud to support HACLA’s Section 3 programs and provide meaningful impact to the community through job opportunities and scholarships,” said Shayan Simantob, Vice President, EFI Global, Inc. “Our participation in these programs has been most rewarding, and it is an honor to see participants grow in their educational and professional careers through new opportunities.”
“Being able to be a small part of the redevelopment of my community has been a great privilege for me, and I look forward to seeing how my community benefits from these changes, said Jose Mateo, Pueblo Del Sol Resident and Section 3 Participant. “Through the Section 3 program, Portrait Construction, took a chance on me and gave me the opportunity to get my foot in the construction industry. For this, I am forever grateful to them.”
From NBC 4 News Columbus:
An affordable housing development designed to expand living options for adults with disabilities moved a step toward construction this month after receiving approval from Dublin planning officials.
The city’s planning and zoning commission recommended approval on Jan. 15 of the final development plan for All In Dublin, a four-story, 75-unit multifamily project planned for a 1.6-acre vacant site at the corner of Dublin Center Drive and West Dublin Granville Road. The development is expected to cost about $24 million.
All In Dublin is being developed by All Inclusive Living in partnership with TFG Housing Resources and the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority. Construction is anticipated to begin this summer, with residents expected to move in by fall 2027.
...
Housing for residents with disabilities will be supported through Section 811 rental assistance, a federal program that helps low-income adults with disabilities afford housing.
“Projects like All In Dublin will serve individuals and families who desperately need affordable, inclusive housing, and we are proud to play a role in making this vision a reality,” said Robert Bitzenhofer, Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority vice president of planning and development.
Read NBC 4 News' article "Housing project for adults with disabilities advances in Dublin."