Rep. Carney presented with Leon N. Weiner Award by Housing Opportunities of Northern Delaware, Inc.
 
WILMINGTON, Del. — Congressman John Carney (D-DE) was recognized today for his long-standing efforts in promoting fair, affordable housing options for Delawareans.  Housing Opportunities of Northern Delaware, Inc. (HOND) presented Congressman Carney with its prestigious Leon N. Weiner Award, which is given annually to an individual who persistently strives to promote fair and equal access to housing in Delaware.  The award was presented at HOND’s 31st annual Fair Housing Observance & Awards Luncheon held every year during April in celebration of Fair Housing Month.
 
“It’s a great honor to accept this award in the presence of so many who have dedicated their lives to ensuring that every Delawarean has a safe, affordable place to call home,” said Congressman Carney.  “That goal has become harder to achieve in recent years as more Delawareans have faced foreclosure or eviction because of a lost job or cutback in hours.  It’s during difficult economic times when the guidance, support, and services that HOND and other organizations provide become so important.  Delaware’s fair housing advocates are a voice for some of the most vulnerable in our community, and I’m proud to support efforts to make that voice heard.”
 
Congressman Carney, a member of the House Financial Services Committee, which oversees the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, , has supported several measures to promote fair and affordable housing at the federal level.  Last month, Congressman Carney urged his colleagues in the House to support increased funding for the HUD-VASH program, which helps homeless veterans’ access rental assistance and supportive services enabling many to once again become self-sufficient members of the community.  
 
Congressman Carney has also supported investments in federal Community Development Block Grants, and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program which provide states with the resources to identify and address the most pressing housing needs at the local level.  In addition, while serving as Delaware’s Lt. Governor, Carney created the Lt. Governor’s Foreclosure Prevention Task Force in 2007.  The group brought together representatives from the financial services and housing communities to implement a coordinated response to Delaware’s looming foreclosure crisis based on increased education for homeowners and financial support for programs designed to keep Delawareans in their homes.  
 
“Congressman Carney has been an advocate for fair and affordable housing opportunities in Delaware for many years,” said Gladys Spikes, Executive Director of HOND.  “He is very deserving of the Leon N. Weiner Award because he shows the same compassion and drive for equality to help seniors and families with moderate means find affordable homes.  I look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Carney on behalf of these Delawareans.”
 
About HOND
Housing Opportunities of Northern Delaware, Inc. (HOND) is a non-profit corporation promoting fair and equal housing opportunities in the sale and rental of housing in the state of Delaware.  HOND staff members work diligently to help those in the Northern Delaware community realize the American Dream of home ownership by providing guidance, mentoring and achievable solutions to deserving families and individuals, allowing them to build a solid foundation for their future. 
 
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