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Give New Jersey Families Something to Be Thankful For: Reinvest in the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, say Housing Advocates 11/25/2025 In response to the Murphy Administration’s statement concluding National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network) called on state leaders to restore the $80 million in Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) dollars diverted in the FY26 budget, even as it welcomed the Administration’s continued focus on homelessness prevention and housing stability. “As we reflect on National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week and head into Thanksgiving, we’re reminded that safe, affordable homes are the foundation every family needs to thrive,” said Matthew Hersh, vice president of policy and advocacy of the Network. “We welcome the Administration’s efforts to prevent and address homelessness, especially in the face of the Trump Administration’s plan to destabilize housing for over 170,000 people. Now more than ever, New Jersey communities need sustained, reliable investment.” In its announcement, the Murphy Administration said the AHTF supported 23 projects this year, helping create 185 new affordable homes across the state. While these are important developments, the Network notes that this represents only a fraction of what New Jersey communities need to keep pace with rising housing costs and growing demand. “As many of us gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, we must recommit to ensuring that all New Jerseyans have the stability and dignity of a home,” Berger added. “To ensure every neighbor has a place at the table, our elected leaders must restore and grow the AHTF. Filling it consistently and at meaningful levels will allow us to build the homes our residents urgently need and prevent more families from facing the trauma of homelessness.” The Network urges state leaders to prioritize restoring the remaining $80 million to the Trust Fund to ensure resources are available to create affordable homes and strengthen homelessness-prevention efforts statewide. About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ For more information: Nina Rainiero |