Habitat for Humanity Minnesota Affiliates Join Advocacy Charge on Affordable Housing

Legislative agenda introduced at state capitol to support foreclosure recovery and neighborhood revitalization; efforts continue in Washington, D.C

ST. PAUL, February 24, 2010 – Habitat for Humanity affiliates across Minnesota gathered at the state capitol last week, February 18, to promote a vital legislative agenda created to help families and local communities recover from the widespread foreclosure crisis. The day-long event, coined “Habitat on the Hill,” included participation from more than 75 volunteers and Habitat homeowners from across the state of Minnesota, representing more than 40 of the 67 Senate Districts.

“Habitat on the Hill marks the beginning of an ambitious state legislative strategy,” said Kristin Beckmann, Director of Government and Community Relations, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity. “The state’s investment in affordable housing has never been more critical to families and neighborhoods in the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota impacted heavily by foreclosure. The need and opportunities are immense; we must act now.”

The large group began the day with a legislative session overview and advocacy training to ensure meetings and discussions with legislators were informative and succinct. Once broken up into 25 teams, speaking assignments were determined for designated districts and participants engaged in role play scenarios. The teams then had scheduled meetings and connect with more than 100 State Legislators.

“Habitat on the Hill was a unique, engaging opportunity for both me and my daughter to discuss tough issues affecting Minnesota communities and tell our story,” said Lori Erickson, St. Paul resident, Habitat homeowner and partner family. “Having a Habitat home for the past 14 years helped me have a safe, stable place to raise my family as a single parent; it’s what truly helped my three children be successful and all attend college. I hope our face-to-face presence and conversations had a positive impact on legislators.”

A pertinent issue on the agenda included the dire need for state funding through the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s Challenge Fund, also known as CRV. Roughly 20 of the 33 affiliates rely on these funds to make a positive impact on affordable housing in their communities.

“This year, Habitat affiliates will celebrate 1,800 homes built in Minnesota,” said Alison Trodahl, Volunteer Coordinator, South Central Habitat for Humanity. “While we rely on congregations, corporations, individuals and foundations to fund and build the houses, many Habitat affiliates receive local government funding and state support to cover a portion of those costs. As budget decisions are made, we are pushing for program dollars to remain available.”

Another important issue discussed was the SAFE Act, requiring all individuals that originate mortgages and loans to meet increased standards, in an effort to increase consumer protection against fraud. Once the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allows it, Habitat’s goal is to seek exceptions at the state level for qualified non-profits to reduce new costs and regulatory burdens associated with the SAFE Act.

“Habitat affiliates are not only the builder, but also the bank. Together with our volunteers, donors and partner families we build homes for qualified homebuyers and originate the mortgages involved, “said Cheryl Peterson, Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program Manager, Twin Cities Habitat. “The SAFE Act weighs heavy on our minds and will affect our programs immensely.”

In addition to efforts in Minnesota, Habitat for Humanity International is gathering affiliates from across the country to make affordable housing a top priority for Congress in Washington, D.C., February 24-26.

To learn more on advocacy efforts, please visit: www.habitat.org/gov or www.tchabitat.org/advocacyblog.

About Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity
The mission of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is to eliminate poverty housing from the Twin Cities and to make decent, affordable shelter for all people a matter of conscience. An award-winning nonprofit housing developer, Twin Cities Habitat is committed to building the quality of life, health and economic prosperity of the region by producing, preserving and advocating for affordable homeownership – because homes and families are the foundation of successful communities.
For more information, visit www.tchabitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built more than 300,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1.5 million people. For more information, visit www.habitat.org.