Catholic Charities USA Statement on Passage of Key Elderly and Disabled Housing Bills

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Dec 23, 2010, 01:53 ET

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 23, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rev. Larry Snyder, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, issued the following statement today following Senate passage of S. 118 and S. 1481 providing for major improvement in Section 202 and Section 811 Housing:

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"Catholic Charities USA, which has long advocated for elderly and disability housing, applauds the leadership in Congress for addressing the critical housing needs of our nation's low-income seniors and disabled citizens with passage of S. 118 and S. 1481. As a nation, we must ensure that our most vulnerable citizens not only have a safe place to live, but are also provided with effective coordination of critically needed services. These policy improvements are positive steps in the right direction.

Congressional approval of the 'Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Act of 2009' and the 'Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act of 2009' will improve the development and maintenance of housing for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. The Section 202 improvements include policy changes that will make it easier for seniors to gain access to safe, affordable housing and age in place. At the same time, these changes will expand housing options for seniors by simplifying the development and preservation of 202 Supportive Housing. Changes to the Section 811-disabled housing will increase the availability of rental units for people with disabilities and improve service integration so individuals can live independently."

CCUSA is committed to working to reduce poverty and advancing innovative solutions so that all can live a life of dignity and respect. In September of this year—in concert with its Centennial—CCUSA introduced the National Opportunity and Community Renewal Act to lead the way in changing how the nation addresses poverty.

Catholic Charities USA's members provide help and create hope for more than 9 million people a year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. For almost 300 years, Catholic Charities agencies have worked to reduce poverty by providing a myriad of vital services in their communities, ranging from health care and job training to food and housing. In 2010, Catholic Charities USA celebrates its centennial anniversary.

SOURCE Catholic Charities USA