Habitat lobbies representatives

Representatives from Sisters Habitat for Humanity ventured to Salem March 2 to advocate with their state representatives for resources to be allocated for affordable homeownership and repairs.

Executive Director Sharlene Weed, Board President Clark Brody, and Habitat homeowner Robin Tawney attended the advocacy day and were able to meet with six state representatives including John Huffman, Gene Whisnant, and Tim Knopp.

"It is always exciting to visit the Capital and participate in the legislative process. This was the third year we have attended and we actually greeted many of our legislators like old friends. I hope we were able to garner their support for affordable housing," Brody said.

The advocacy day was coordinated through Habitat for Humanity of Oregon, a state support organization, which provides fundraising, training, technical assistance, and advocacy to 30 Oregon Habitat for Humanity affiliates.

More than 40 Habitat supporters met in 60 legislative sessions and asked for the creation of a new revolving loan fund that will increase the production of affordable homes for first-time buyers who have completed homebuyer education and demonstrated their ability to repay a mortgage. It was asked that $25 million be invested to seed the fund.

In addition, Habitat for Humanity joined with other housing organizations to promote additional legislative initiatives to increase affordable housing options in the state.