The dwindling supply of affordable starter homes across America is a crisis that denies millions of families the foundation for stability and opportunity, while straining communities and hindering economic growth. This can be seen in every jurisdiction across the Central Coast of California. In response, Habitat for Humanity is stepping up to advocate for bold solutions, many of which were highlighted this week at Habitat on the Hill, the organization’s annual legislative event in Washington, D.C.
Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay joined 475 Habitat affiliates and housing advocates from across the country in a united call to Congress: It’s time to address the housing crisis with urgency. CEO Catherine Stihler met with Congressmembers Zoe Lofgren and Jimmy Panetta as well as Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla.
“Every day, we see families that still can’t afford a safe, stable home,” said Catherine Stihler, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay. “Raising our voices is just as important as swinging our hammers when it comes to addressing the affordable housing crisis, and we look forward to working alongside lawmakers to ensure more people have a place to call home. In Monterey and Santa Cruz counties, the lack of affordable homes isn’t just a statistic, it’s a daily reality for families.”
Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay urged Congress to invest in solutions to expand starter home supply, including:
● Support for the Homeownership Supply Accelerator to boost affordable home construction and rehabilitation
● Finalizing fiscal year 2025 appropriations to provide strong funding in the FY 2026 budget for housing programs, including:
Department of Housing and Urban Development (T-HUD Bill): $20 million for the Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program and $1.5 billion for the HOME Investment Partnerships Program.
Department of Agriculture (Ag-Rural Development Bill): $1.25 billion for the USDA Section 502 Direct Loan Program.
“Escalating housing costs in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties are having profound impacts on individuals and families, and Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring everyone in our community has accessible, safe shelter,” stated Catherine Stihler.
The mission of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay is to build decent, affordable homes and provide homeownership opportunities to qualified families who live and work in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Together, our volunteers and families have built 65 homes supporting 77 families, with further plans extending through the foreseeable future.
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