Local residents will speak out against proposed federal cuts that could displace thousands of families across our region

Central New York families face an unprecedented threat to their housing security as the Trump administration’s proposed federal budget would slash funding for critical housing assistance programs by 44%. With over 4.4 billion dollars in federal housing funds at risk for New York State, local residents are preparing to make their voices heard in a panel discussion this Friday at the Utica Public Library.

The proposed cuts target programs that thousands of Central New York families depend on to keep a roof over their heads. Section 8 rental assistance, public housing, and homeless services would face dramatic reductions under the administration’s plan to cut HUD funding by nearly half.

What’s At Stake for Central New York

The numbers paint a stark picture of what these cuts could mean locally. The proposed budget would eliminate the Housing Choice Voucher program entirely, replacing it with state block grants that would provide far less support. Even more troubling, the plan includes a two-year time limit on assistance for families who aren’t elderly or disabled.

This time limit would be devastating for working families who are trying to get back on their feet. Many recipients of housing assistance are employed but simply cannot afford market-rate housing in areas where wages haven’t kept pace with rising rents.

Local Impact Could Be Severe

Housing advocates warn that the cuts could lead to a homelessness crisis in Central New York. Research shows that rental assistance time limits would put more than 3 million people nationwide at risk of eviction and homelessness, with half of those affected being children.

The timing couldn’t be worse. Our region already struggles with limited affordable housing options and rising costs. Removing the federal safety net would push vulnerable families into an impossible situation.

Community Response

Friday’s panel discussion represents a grassroots effort to fight back against these proposed cuts. Organized by the Central New York chapter of Citizen Action of New York and the Greater Syracuse Tenant Network, the event will feature:

• Real stories from residents who rely on federal housing assistance
• Analysis of how the cuts would impact local communities
• A formal letter to our congressional delegation urging opposition to the proposed budget

The event takes place at 2:00 PM in the Music Room on the second floor of the Utica Public Library at 303 Genesee Street.

What Congress Can Do

While the president’s budget represents his priorities, Congress ultimately decides how federal funds are allocated. The House and Senate have already rejected some of the most extreme cuts proposed by the administration, but their current budget proposals still fall short of maintaining current assistance levels.

With the September 30 budget deadline approaching, our representatives need to hear from constituents about the real-world impact these cuts would have on Central New York families.

Looking Beyond the Numbers

Behind every statistic is a human story. These are working parents struggling to make ends meet, elderly residents living on fixed incomes, and people with disabilities who need stable housing to access essential services. Housing assistance isn’t just about having a place to sleep – it’s about giving families the stability they need to work, attend school, and contribute to their communities.

Taking Action

We encourage community members to attend Friday’s panel discussion and learn more about this critical issue. But advocacy shouldn’t stop there. Contact your representatives and let them know how important federal housing assistance is to Central New York.

The stakes are too high for our community to remain silent. When thousands of families could lose their homes, we all have a responsibility to speak up.

What are your thoughts on the proposed housing cuts? Share your story or leave a comment below. If this issue concerns you, please share this article with others in your network – together, we can make sure our representatives understand what’s at stake for Central New York families.