Monday, March 5, 2007

Toni Willingham and Robert Messick's slide into homelessness mirrors the federal government's shrinking commitment to affordable housing. The story of this young couple ["In N.Va., Let Down by a Rising Economy; High Housing Costs and an Unpredictable Job Market Send Growing Numbers Into Poverty and Homelessness," Metro, Feb. 27] illustrates the need for increased spending on affordable housing.

They are among 8.8 million Americans unable to find decent, affordable apartments. One key reason those apartments are so hard to find is that they were never built. More than two decades ago, the federal government essentially quit producing rental housing for households with the lowest incomes. Public housing construction was "out." Homeownership was "in."

The underfunded Section 8 rental assistance program reaches only a fraction of needy households. As a result, housing waiting lists are long, homeless shelters operate at capacity and lives are put on hold. Ms. Willingham and Mr. Messick are part of the new, leaner economy where families are just one paycheck or one illness away from homelessness.

Congress needs to strengthen the role of public housing and recognize its rich history of supporting families with basic, secure housing in times of need.

KATHI WHALEN

Housing Policy Analyst

Public Housing Authority Directors Association

Washington