We need your help again to protect fair housing rights on Long Island – and for the entire U.S.!
You previously came out to support Long Island Housing Services when U.S. Department of Housing and Urban attempted to unlawfully terminate Fair Housing Enforcement contract in February, which is the middle of the grant year.
Now the Trump Administration is trying to end the program entirely by zeroing out the HUD Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) budget in the FY26 federal budget. This would jeopardize the critical work we do to combat housing discrimination.
Why FHIP Funding Matters
FHIP has been a lifeline for thousands of families, providing essential support to vulnerable populations, including disabled veterans, survivors of domestic violence, and families with children. This program has consistently received bipartisan support since its inception during the Reagan Administration, helping ensure that everyone can access housing free from discrimination.
In Nassau and Suffolk counties, Long Island Housing Services (LIHS) relies on FHIP grants for 20.5% of our budget. Without this funding, our ability to investigate discrimination complaints and provide crucial education and outreach will be severely impacted.
The loss of this funding would severely undermine our ability to combat housing discrimination, leaving many residents without recourse against unlawful practices. For instance, in 2023, LIHS secured a $105,000 settlement for victims of discrimination, demonstrating our vital role in protecting individual rights and promoting community well-being.
FHIP not only assists individuals but also saves the federal government money by addressing discrimination before it leads to homelessness—ultimately reducing costs associated with emergency housing and social services. In 2023, FHIP grantees processed 75.52% of housing discrimination complaints, compared to just 5.10% handled by HUD.
This effectiveness underscores the importance of maintaining and enhancing FHIP funding.
The Consequences of Funding Cuts
If FHIP funding is cut, we will face:
– Reduced counseling and education on fair housing rights.
– Fewer investigations of discrimination complaints.
– Elimination of outreach services to vulnerable populations.
These cuts threaten not only individual rights but the well-being of our entire community.
Take Action Today!
We encourage you to write to your congressperson and U.S. senators to request the restoration of FHIP funding for the FY26 budget in the amount of $125 million. Your voice matters, and together we can make a difference!
Your Voice Matters!
By taking a moment to write this letter, you can help ensure that fair housing protections remain strong in our community. Together, we can continue the fight against discrimination and promote equitable housing for all Long Islanders.
Thank you for your support!
Sincerely,
Ian Wilder, Esq.
Executive Director
Ian@LIFairHousing.org
631-567-5111 ext 314
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