Contact: Paul Williams (414) 559-5573 (cell)
MILWAUKEE (March 2, 2017) – The Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) looks forward to working with Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, Sr. as the new Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Earlier today the U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of Dr. Carson as the 17th HUD Secretary since the creation of the agency in 1965.
HACM shares with Dr. Carson and HUD the mission to fight poverty by providing quality affordable housing to the most vulnerable members of our community and by connecting housing resources to other vital services, such as education, health care, and employment opportunities, that can help people move beyond poverty to self-sufficiency.
“Stable housing is necessary to allow individuals to build healthy and productive lives, and we are hopeful that Dr. Carson will be a strong advocate for adequate funding to address our nation’s affordable housing needs,” said Mayor Tom Barrett.
“We encourage Dr. Carson to look to local housing agencies for examples of innovative, evidence-based programs that strengthen their communities and provide opportunities for low-income Americans to thrive,” said Tony Pérez, HACM Secretary-Executive Director.
For example, in Milwaukee:
- The Housing Authority’s Education Initiative has achieved a 91% graduation rate among high school seniors who live in two HACM neighborhoods.
- The Lapham Park Venture established a nationally-recognized partnership between government and non-profit agencies to provide low-income seniors with continuing care within their community and delaying the move into much more expensive long-term nursing care. The Venture is estimated to save $1 million in annual Medicaid costs.
- The Make Your Money Talk financial education and asset-building program has provided nearly 1,900 low-income individuals with the education to manage tight budgets, avoid credit problems, and save money for future goals. Over 230 individuals have used the program to save hard-earned income for life-changing assets, such as the purchase of a home, education or starting a business.
Additional information about HACM programs and services can be found at www.hacm.org.
The Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) works to foster strong, resilient and inclusive communities by providing a continuum of high-quality housing options that support self-sufficiency, good quality of life, and the opportunity to thrive. HACM provides affordable housing options to over 11,000 families, older adults and adults with disabilities.
