Dear Readers,
Cuts to federal programs have historically impacted low-income communities, but recent actions have excessively targeted the most marginalized groups in the United States, exacerbating the challenges these communities were already facing. With the current administration making explicit cuts to vital housing assistance programs and laying off essential staff, it may feel daunting to engage in advocacy around the federal budget. However, now is the time to participate in federal advocacy, particularly concerning the federal funds that flow into local jurisdictions.
The budget process in the United States involves multiple steps that can be confusing; however, understanding these steps is essential for effectively advocating for housing programs. Tenant Talk: Navigating Funding Cuts, Empowering Tenants to Shape Policy clarifies the federal budget process and outlines the stakes if proposed budget cuts to housing programs and related services are enacted.
In this edition, readers will learn about the federal budget process, including how funding is allocated for the fiscal year (FY), the various committees involved in budget discussions, and which important programs are at risk of being cut. Additionally, tenants who would be significantly and negatively affected by federal housing cuts have shared their stories.
While we present several ways to take action against these cuts in this edition, we hope you can use this publication as an educational tool and share it with others in your community. As Congress prepares to review and pass the 2026 budget, there is still an opportunity to engage in advocacy, especially if the budget does not pass by the October 1 deadline. To learn more about this process and related information, please continue reading.
Let’s advocate against federal funding cuts together!
In solidarity,
The Editorial Board
Zella Knight, Loraine Brown, Geraldine Collins, Mindy Woods and Rhonda Hamilton