On Thursday, March 16, 2017, President Trump released his proposed budget for the 2018 fiscal year. In addition to cuts that broadly impact social services, the arts, environment, agriculture, and education, the budget also includes a $6.2 billion cut to HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development).

This proposed budget will have deep and lasting impacts on neighborhoods and families throughout the country. It would eliminate a variety of vital HUD programs including two that directly affect PRG’s work. The HOME Investment Partnerships Program supports our affordable housing development, and Section 4 Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing provides much-needed operating support for our housing programs.

As is often the case, these program cuts will disproportionately impact communities of color and low-income communities. PRG, a recipient of HUD funding, has always worked to improve neighborhoods and communities on the local level.

Last year, PRG:

• Provided free foreclosure prevention counseling to 50 families, helping 73% of these avoid foreclosure
• Prepared 360 households for first-time homeownership with homebuyer education workshops
• Awarded 88% of our construction contracts to minority-owned businesses, impacting the local economy
• Sold 90% of PRG-developed homes to households of color

To continue doing this important work, we need your help to spread the word about the importance of protecting critical resources for affordable housing.

What you can do:

• Contact your elected representatives. Call or send postcards. Find contact information for:
  • US Senators
  • US Representatives
  • Minnesota Lawmakers
• Donate to PRG. From $5 to $500, your tax-deductible gift in any amount helps.
• Share your PRG story. Tell us how PRG has impacted you, your neighborhood, or your community.
  • What did you learn at HomeStretch?
  • Do you live in a PRG-developed home? Can you share a picture of your house?
  • Has Mindy or Thandisizwe or Erin helped you on your journey?
• Let your voice be heard.
  • Follow us, comment, and share via Facebook and Twitter.
  • Write a letter to the editor about the importance of affordable housing