Congressional Caucuses Send Letter to FHFA Urging Agency to Take “Bold Action” on Tenant Protections

The Congressional Progressive Caucus, along with the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), and the  Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) – together known as the Tri-Caucus – sent a letter to Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director Sandra Thompson urging her agency to take “bold action…to require clear, strong, and enforceable protections for tenants living in Enterprise-backed properties.” The letter calls for FHFA to require and enforce six protections: anti-rent gouging protections, “good cause” eviction standards, source-of-income protections, habitability and accessibility requirements, rental registry participation requirements, and limits on artificial intelligence (AI) to curb rent spikes.

Led by Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), the letter calls for bold action to implement renter protections for all households living in properties with Enterprise-backed mortgage. The letter recognizes the high cost of housing for America’s lowest-income and most marginalized renters, drawing a direct connection to racial inequities and homelessness. “In the worst cases, individuals and families are being forced into homelessness, living in tents, cars, or shelters,” the letter states. “The rent inflation crisis is an issue of racial and economic justice. Black, Hispanic, and Asian American renters are more likely to be severely cost burdened than white renters.” The letter urges FHFA to act in coordination with Congressional action. The letter continues: “In addition to the work that lies ahead for Congress, the FHFA must use every tool available to ensure stability and affordability for tenants. Given the broad reach of FHFA’s work, any tenant protections created by FHFA should cover a significant share of tenants across the nation and put America on a pathway towards stronger protections for all tenants.”

The letter was signed by chairs of each caucus: Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) representing the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC); Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA), representing the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC); and Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV), representing the Congressional Black Caucus.

Read the letter to FHFA at: https://tinyurl.com/5y57ddn2

Federal Definitions of Homelessness Should Not be Different

Legislation Introduced to Foster Success in Education for Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Youth 

A college degree dramatically increases employment and earnings. Although the vast majority of foster and homeless youth want to attend college, these youth experience multiple challenges (such as financial hardship, housing insecurity, poor academic preparation) that undermine enrollment and completion.

The Fostering Success in Higher Education Act would substantially improve state capacity to assist these students, helping them cover the costs of college and providing robust support and mental health services.

The Homeless Children and Youth Act (H.R. 5221) Would Serve Some of the Most Vulnerable Children and Youth, and Prevent Future Homelessness

U.S. Representatives Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), Bill Posey (R-FL-08), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) reintroduced the Homeless Children and Youth Act (HCYA) (H.R. 5221) on August 15, 2023. This legislation would change how HUD defines homelessness so that more children, youth, and families can access the housing assistance they need

Read More…

Helping Youth Secure Their Futures with Transportation

Helping Youth Secure Their Futures with Transportation

In today's fast-paced world, landing a job can be a challenging endeavor, especially for our youth who are striving to establish themselves in the professional arena. The Fenix Youth Project has always been dedicated to nurturing the potential of young individuals and empowering them to achieve their dreams. However, there is a growing concern that some of our most committed youth are facing unnecessary hurdles in their journey toward a better future. The frustration mounts as they repeatedly miss out on crucial job interviews due to the lack of adequate transportation.

The Transportation Barrier

Imagine being an ambitious young person who has diligently prepared for a job interview that could be your ticket to financial stability and independence. You've polished your resume, practiced your interview skills, and are ready to put your best foot forward. But there's a problem – you can't get to the interview because you lack reliable transportation.

This is an unfortunate reality for some of the youth involved in the Fenix Youth Project. Despite their passion, determination, and enthusiasm to secure a job, they often find themselves trapped by the transportation barrier. They are unable to access crucial opportunities that could change the course of their lives simply because they cannot get to the places they need to be.

The Call to Action

We cannot stand by and watch as our committed youth continue to face these unnecessary obstacles. It's time for us to come together as a community and bridge the transportation gap that is hindering their progress.

We are excited to introduce a new initiative – the "Rideshare Volunteers for Fenix Youth Project." We are seeking compassionate individuals who are willing to donate their time and resources to ensure that our youth can access the opportunities they deserve. By signing up as a volunteer, you can make a significant difference in the lives of these young individuals and help them secure their futures.

How Can You Help?

Becoming a Rideshare Volunteer is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to the Fenix Youth Project. Your commitment can mean the world to a young person who is eager to step into the workforce and build a better life. Here's how you can get involved:

• Sign Up: Contact TY at ty@fenixyouthproject.org or (443) 736-7028 to express your interest in becoming a Rideshare Volunteer. You'll receive all the necessary information and guidance to get started.

• Provide Rides: Once you've signed up, you'll be matched with youth in need of transportation to important appointments and interviews. Your willingness to offer rides can be a game-changer for them.

• Spread the Word: Share this initiative with your friends, family, and social networks to encourage more volunteers to join us in supporting our youth.

Our youth are the future, and we cannot afford to let them miss out on opportunities that can set them on the path to success. By becoming a Rideshare Volunteer for Fenix Youth Project, you can play a vital role in breaking down the transportation barrier that is holding our youth back. Let's come together as a community, extend a helping hand, and empower these young individuals to reach their full potential. Your support can make all the difference.

Don't hesitate – reach out to TY at ty@fenixyouthproject.org or (443) 736-7028 today and be a part of this transformative journey. Together, we can ensure that every youth has the chance to secure their future.