Housing Trust Funds
Housing trust funds are distinct funds established by city, county or state governments to receive ongoing dedicated sources of public funding to support the preservation and production of affordable housing and increase opportunities to access decent affordable homes.
There are now 38 state housing trust funds and more than 350 city and county housing trust funds in operation. They dedicate an excess of $750 million each and every year to help address critical housing needs throughout the country.
Housing trust funds provide a steady stream of reliable revenue to support the complexities of the affordable housing industry. Because the funds are dedicated, they are usually the most flexible money available for affordable housing and allow for maximum efficiency in the use of these funds. In addition, they encourage the leveraging of other public and private dollars.
Most housing trust funds are created by housing advocates as members of community based organizations or coalitions. Typically, they recognize the impact that a lack of affordable housing has on their members and their communities. A campaign starts by those most concerned, coming together and talking about the alternatives for a housing trust fund.
Housing trust fund campaigns are complex and lengthy. The average campaign requires three years of work.
The State of Idaho has an established Housing Trust Fund but it has not yet been funded.
Contact Information
National Low Income Housing Coalition- National Trust Fund
http://www.nhtf.org
Center for Community Change- Housing Trust Fund Project
http://www.communitychange.org/our-projects/htf
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