PRESS STATEMENT
March 9, 2017

Washington, DC –

The CDBG Coalition issued the following statement in response to reports that the Trump Administration plans to eliminate funding for the Community Development Block Grant in its FY 2018 Budget for the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

“Given the far-reaching need and impact of this critical program, it is indefensible that this program would be recommended for elimination.”

The CDBG program provides funds to communities to address serious infrastructure, economic development, housing and other community development needs. Over 1,200 States and local governments receive annual CDBG funding. CDBG also provides sustained, tangible investments in local communities that attract other investment dollars. Every $1.00 of CDBG attracts another $3.65 in other private and public investments.

The CDBG Coalition is a network of 20 national organizations dedicated to the support and growth of the CDBG program. CDBG was enacted in 1974 under the Housing and Community Development Act. The program remains one of the most important resources for State and local governments to use in devising flexible solutions to meet community development needs.

“We call on the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to eliminate the program and call on Congress to reject any attempts to eliminate or cut CDBG. We further call on Congress to support at least $3.3 billion for the program in FY 2018.”

CDBG Coalition Members: U.S. Conference of Mayors, National Association of Counties, National League of Cities, National Community Development Association, Council of State Community Development Agencies, National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, American Planning Association, Habitat for Humanity International, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Feeding America, Rebuilding Together, National Recreation and Park Association, National Association for County Community and Economic Development, National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies, National Association of Development Organizations, National Association of Regional Councils, YWCA USA, National Urban League, International Economic Development Council, and Enterprise Community Partners.