BONILLA HOSTS HUD ASSISTANT SECRETARY

AT SOUTH TEXAS HOUSING SUMMIT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Henry Bonilla hosted a housing summit in Eagle Pass featuring his special guest, Orlando Cabrera, Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing for the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Middle Rio Grande Development Council co-hosted the event. Housing Authority officials and other community leaders from across South Texas were present for the discussion.

Congressman Bonilla understands the complex housing issues facing South Texas having started life in a housing project on the west side of San Antonio. He knows first-hand the struggles that come with living in a housing project. However, Congressman Bonilla also knows that with hard work, self-initiative, and determination, there is much promise and opportunity for Americans regardless of where they grow up.

"I am thrilled to be in Eagle Pass today with our nation's public housing leader - Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing Orlando Cabrera. The large turnout at today's event is a testament to the importance of housing issues in our communities. Since my election to Congress, I have fought hard to increase access and affordability for public housing," said Congressman Bonilla.  "I am grateful for Assistant Secretary Cabrera's participation at today's event, and I am thankful that each community present had a chance to share their views and receive valuable input from him."

Assistant Secretary Cabrera, who oversees all public housing issues in Washington, engaged in a working lunch addressing the major housing issues facing South Texas communities. Congressman Bonilla understands the importance of housing issues in our communities and he is pleased to bring our nation's housing leader to South Texas. 

As Assistant Secretary, Mr. Cabrera oversees the Office of Public and Indian Housing's mission to ensure safe, decent, and affordable housing. He also works to create opportunities for residents' self-sufficiency and economic independence as well as to assure the fiscal integrity of all program participants. Mr. Cabrera has had extensive experience in the housing industry.  Before joining HUD, he served as Executive Director of the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.  Mr. Cabrera's experience with Florida Housing began in December, 2000 when Governor Jeb Bush appointed Mr. Cabrera as a citizen representative on Florida Housing's Board of Directors.  He has since served as Florida Housing's Vice Chairman, Chairman and Executive Director.

Congressman Bonilla has represented the South Texas region since first being elected to Congress.  Bonilla serves as Chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds all grants for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  In addition to chairing the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, Bonilla is a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.

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