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Addressing the Housing Crisis in Houston

ABOVE: David A. Northern, Sr., President and CEO of Houston Housing Authority EXCLUSIVE: One-On-One with David A. Northern, Sr., President and CEO of Houston Housing Authority According to a recent report released by the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) entitled The Gap: A Shortage of Affordable Homes, Texas ranks the sixth-worst state in the […]
The post Addressing the Housing Crisis in Houston first appeared on BlackPressUSA.

Published

2 years ago

September 20, 2023

Forward Times Staff

ABOVE: David A. Northern, Sr., President and CEO of Houston Housing Authority

EXCLUSIVE: One-On-One with David A. Northern, Sr., President and CEO of Houston Housing Authority

According to a recent report released by the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) entitled The Gap: A Shortage of Affordable Homes, Texas ranks the sixth-worst state in the U.S. for affordable housing for extremely low-income renters, with Houston ranking the fifth worst metropolitan city in the country.

The Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers (TAAHP)—a non-profit trade association that serves as the primary advocate and leading resource for the affordable housing industry in Texas—highlighted key facts from the report, relative to the immediate need for more affordable housing in Texas, and across the Greater Houston area, such as:

Twenty-two percent of all Texas rental households are extremely low income.
79% of all Texas rental households are severely cost burdened, meaning they spend over half their income on housing.
Only 25 rental units per 100 units are affordable and available for extremely low-income households.
There’s a shortage of 864,338 affordable and available units for households living at or below 50% AMI {Area Median Income (AMI) is generated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)}
Between 2019 and 2021, the lack of affordable and available rental homes for very low-income renters (at or below 50% AMI) worsened by more than 164,591 units, or 24%.
In Houston’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), there are 19 affordable and available rental homes for every 100 extremely low-income renter households.

One of the ways in which the city of Houston has sought to address challenges with providing more affordable housing opportunities is through the Houston Housing Authority (HHA).

David A. Northern, Sr., President and CEO of Houston Housing Authority

Created as an independent entity by the Houston City Council in 1938, in response to federal legislation—the U.S. Housing Act of 1937—the HHA helped implement state legislation that charged local entities with providing decent, safe, and sanitary housing for low to moderate-income families and individuals.

Today, HHA is one of the nation’s largest housing authorities and provides affordable homes and services to more than 60,000 low-income Houstonians, with 200 plus full-time employees and more than 100 private management staff. HHA’s annual budget is about $300 million with an inventory that includes a federally funded portfolio of 24,000 units and 22,000 non-federal units. HHA helps over 17,000 families who are housed through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, 4,200 living in 19 public housing and tax credit developments, and an additional 716 in project-based voucher developments around the city. HHA also administers one of the nation’s largest voucher programs exclusively serving homeless veterans.

David A. Northern, Sr. currently serves as the President and CEO of HHA, after being hired to come to the city of Houston to lead the organization in February 2022.

Prior to HHA, Northern served as president and CEO of the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District, which is the largest housing authority in Alabama.

Northern obtained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Ball State University and a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University. Additionally, Northern completed the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government 18-month Community Development program. Northern has dedicated his longstanding and reputable career of 26 years to the public housing industry. A demonstrated leader in the affordable housing sector, he is the immediate past president of the Public Housing Authorities Directors Association—an organization of 1,900-member housing agencies representing more than 1.9 million low-income housing units throughout the country.

Northern has proven experience as a proactive leader in federal housing assistance programs, including urban planning and policy development.

In 2011, he was selected as a member of a housing delegation that traveled to South Africa to educate and advise their government leadership. In 2016, Northern was a speaker at the White House Convening on the proposed HUD smoke-free rule in public housing. In 2019 he was appointed by Governor J.B. Pritzker to the Illinois State Housing Task Force and was elected to the Illinois Housing Council’s Board of Directors.

Northern recently visited with the Forward Times to discuss his impressive background, as well as talk about the impact he and his team are having when it comes to addressing the serious issue of providing affordable housing opportunities to every-day citizens in the city of Houston.

David A. Northern, Sr. participates in ribbon cutting ceremony with Cuney Homes Food Pantry

What brought you to Houston?

My commitment to the HHA mission of providing quality, affordable housing options and promoting education and economic self-sufficiency brought me to Houston. This is a city with immense potential, but it also faces significant affordable housing challenges. The Houston Housing Authority’s dedication to serving its community aligned perfectly with my professional goals and values. I was inspired by the potential to make a substantial impact on the lives of Houstonians in need, which motivated me to join this incredible organization. Also, I find Houston to be a highly desirable place to live. The city offers a delightful combination of favorable weather, welcoming residents, exceptional culinary experiences, and a vibrant sports culture.

What have been some of your biggest accomplishments at HHA thus far?

One of the significant accomplishments during my tenure at the Houston Housing Authority has been our efforts to expand affordable housing options. We’ve made strides in fully implementing the Moving to Work Plan, a program that allows us to design innovative strategies to use federal resources more efficiently, help residents find employment, and increase housing choices. Additionally, our Family Self-Sufficiency Program has empowered families to achieve economic self-sufficiency, and we continue to build relationships with landlords and developers to expand affordable housing opportunities in our community. Currently, we have two major projects underway. First, we are providing and installing air-conditioning units in all of our public housing. This is a huge relief for our families in Houston. I am so thrilled that we are able to provide this necessity. Second, we are installing Flock Security Systems across our properties. Specifically, these security systems are License Plate Readers (LTRs). This allows our law enforcement agencies quick access to data that will allow them to apprehend any perpetrators who may commit transgressions in and around our communities. This initiative will offer comfort and peace of mind to our residents. Everyone deserves to live in safe, decent, and sanitary homes.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced with the HHA upon your arrival? How did you or how are you addressing them?

Upon my arrival at the Houston Housing Authority, one of the significant challenges was addressing the shortage of affordable housing in the city, a challenge that has been exacerbated by factors such as gentrification and rising housing costs. To tackle this issue, we are implementing innovative solutions like mixed-income housing developments, which can help prevent displacement and create economic opportunities for low-income families. We are also actively engaging with elected officials and community members to advocate for fair housing policies and secure federal funding for affordable housing initiatives. Upon assuming my role at HHA (amid the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic), I encountered the substantial challenge of a workforce depleted by remote work arrangements. In response, we initiated a robust recruitment program, established an on-site training center, and conducted in-depth assessments to determine how we could offer competitive compensation packages and benefits in order to effectively attract and retain valuable team members.

How did you get into this particular career path and line of work?

I was drawn to the affordable housing sector due to its profound impact on people’s lives and by having a strong commitment to social justice and community development. This commitment led me to take on leadership roles in organizations dedicated to affordable housing, which include working for seven housing authorities and holding leadership positions at the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), the Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA), and Moving to Work (MTW) Collaborative. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside passionate individuals who share the same vision for creating better housing opportunities for all. I firmly believe that housing is a fundamental human right, and my career choice reflects my commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to safe and secure housing. My journey in this field began with a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing housing challenges, which led me to dedicate my career to this cause.

David A. Northern, Sr., President and CEO of Houston Housing Authority

What do you enjoy about the work you do?

What I find most fulfilling about my work is the direct and positive impact it has on individuals and communities. It’s a privilege to be able to contribute to improving the lives of low-income Houstonians by providing them with quality, affordable housing options and the tools to achieve economic self-sufficiency. Every day, I witness the hope and transformation our programs bring to people’s lives, and that is immensely rewarding.

Who have been your greatest influences throughout your career?

My top priorities have always been my faith and my family. And they have been one of my greatest influences that have helped make me the man that I am today. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to be influenced by dedicated professionals who share my passion for affordable housing and social justice. From mentors who guided me in the early stages of my career to colleagues and partners who collaborate with me today, I have drawn inspiration and knowledge from a wide network of individuals committed to the same mission. Their guidance and support have played a pivotal role in shaping my approach and vision for the work I do.

What are some of your key goals at HHA? What legacy do you hope to leave here?

My key goals at HHA revolve around ensuring that every individual we serve has access to safe and affordable housing and the resources to achieve economic self-sufficiency. I hope to leave a legacy of progress, compassion, and innovation in the affordable housing sector. I want the Houston Housing Authority to be a beacon of hope and a model for other organizations in the field, demonstrating that through collaborative efforts and forward-thinking strategies, we can address the affordable housing crisis and improve the lives of countless Houstonians. My leadership at the Houston Housing Authority has always been guided by a deep commitment to support, compassion, and a relentless drive for success. My enduring legacy is one of fostering positivity and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve and the team with whom I work. I want nothing but the best for everyone.

What advice would you give any young, aspiring African Americans seeking to follow your career path?

To young, aspiring African Americans interested in a career in affordable housing or similar fields, I would offer the following advice. Success in any career is strengthened by building professional relationships with people. Networking is essential to expand your outreach and open doors for you that would otherwise remain closed. There is a saying in business, “Either you’re at the table or you’re on the menu.” Be the person who brings yourself to the table of conversations with the right people, and if there isn’t a seat for you at that table, bring your own chair. You won’t know if you don’t ask for opportunities. I would suggest finding mentors to share their insight, expertise, perspective, and knowledge. That can be an invaluable resource as you learn and grow into the type of person you want to be, professionally and personally. Diversity is important, so expand your networking outside of your own race to get perspectives from people of all walks of life, not just the people who look like you. Another key element to success is thinking beyond what other people have done before you: thinking outside the box, the square, the circle, etc. Create your own shape and allow that to guide your choices. Don’t limit yourself based on limitations other people have established before you. Every obstacle can be overcome in some way. The solution lies in your ability to ask questions, get creative to find solutions, and use every success and every setback to your advantage as a way to continuously become stronger in your profession. Additionally, I want young aspiring African Americans to find their 3 “WHATS”:

What is your why? Your purpose and motivation for your aspirations
What is your next? What you plan to do to accomplish your goals
What is your sacrifice? What you are willing to give up in pursuit of achievement

And always remember: You can learn from everyone and anyone what to do and what not to do.

For more information about the Houston Housing Authority (HHA), please visit their website at: https://housingforhouston.com/.

The post Addressing the Housing Crisis in Houston appeared first on Forward Times.

The post Addressing the Housing Crisis in Houston first appeared on BlackPressUSA.

Forward Times Staff

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Chavis and Bryant Lead Charge as Target Boycott Grows

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Surrounded by civil rights leaders, economists, educators, and activists, Bryant declared the Black community’s power to hold corporations accountable for broken promises.

Published

3 days ago

April 23, 2025

Stacy M. Brown

By Stacy M. Brown
BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent

Calling for continued economic action and community solidarity, Dr. Jamal H. Bryant launched the second phase of the national boycott against retail giant Target this week at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta. Surrounded by civil rights leaders, economists, educators, and activists, Bryant declared the Black community’s power to hold corporations accountable for broken promises. “They said they were going to invest in Black communities. They said it — not us,” Bryant told the packed sanctuary. “Now they want to break those promises quietly. That ends tonight.” The town hall marked the conclusion of Bryant’s 40-day “Target fast,” initiated on March 3 after Target pulled back its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments. Among those was a public pledge to spend $2 billion with Black-owned businesses by 2025—a pledge Bryant said was made voluntarily in the wake of George Floyd’s murder in 2020.“No company would dare do to the Jewish or Asian communities what they’ve done to us,” Bryant said. “They think they can get away with it. But not this time.”

The evening featured voices from national movements, including civil rights icon and National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) President & CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., who reinforced the need for sustained consciousness and collective media engagement. The NNPA is the trade association of the 250 African American newspapers and media companies known as The Black Press of America. “On the front page of all of our papers this week will be the announcement that the boycott continues all over the United States,” said Chavis. “I would hope that everyone would subscribe to a Black newspaper, a Black-owned newspaper, subscribe to an economic development program — because the consciousness that we need has to be constantly fed.” Chavis warned against the bombardment of negativity and urged the community to stay engaged beyond single events. “You can come to an event and get that consciousness and then lose it tomorrow,” he said. “We’re bombarded with all of the disgust and hopelessness. But I believe that starting tonight, going forward, we should be more conscious about how we help one another.”

He added, “We can attain and gain a lot more ground even during this period if we turn to each other rather than turning on each other.” Other speakers included Tamika Mallory, Dr. David Johns, Dr. Rashad Richey, educator Dr. Karri Bryant, and U.S. Black Chambers President Ron Busby. Each speaker echoed Bryant’s demand that economic protests be paired with reinvestment in Black businesses and communities. “We are the moral consciousness of this country,” Bryant said. “When we move, the whole nation moves.” Sixteen-year-old William Moore Jr., the youngest attendee, captured the crowd with a challenge to reach younger generations through social media and direct engagement. “If we want to grow this movement, we have to push this narrative in a way that connects,” he said.

Dr. Johns stressed reclaiming cultural identity and resisting systems designed to keep communities uninformed and divided. “We don’t need validation from corporations. We need to teach our children who they are and support each other with love,” he said. Busby directed attendees to platforms like ByBlack.us, a digital directory of over 150,000 Black-owned businesses, encouraging them to shift their dollars from corporations like Target to Black enterprises. Bryant closed by urging the audience to register at targetfast.org, which will soon be renamed to reflect the expanding boycott movement. “They played on our sympathies in 2020. But now we know better,” Bryant said. “And now, we move.”

Stacy M. Brown

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#NNPA BlackPress

The Department of Education is Collecting Delinquent Student Loan Debt

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — the Department of Education will withhold money from tax refunds and Social Security benefits, garnish federal employee wages, and withhold federal pensions from people who have defaulted on their student loan debt.

Published

3 days ago

April 23, 2025

Oakland Post

By April Ryan

Trump Targets Wages for Forgiven Student Debt

The Department of Education, which the Trump administration is working to abolish, will now serve as the collection agency for delinquent student loan debt for 5.3 million people who the administration says are delinquent and owe at least a year’s worth of student loan payments. “It is a liability to taxpayers,” says White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt at Tuesday’s White House Press briefing. She also emphasized the student loan federal government portfolio is “worth nearly $1.6 trillion.” The Trump administration says borrowers must repay their loans, and those in “default will face involuntary collections.” Next month, the Department of Education will withhold money from tax refunds and Social Security benefits, garnish federal employee wages, and withhold federal pensions from people who have defaulted on their student loan debt. Leavitt says “we can not “kick the can down the road” any longer.”

Much of this delinquent debt is said to have resulted from the grace period the Biden administration gave for student loan repayment. The grace period initially was set for 12 months but extended into three years, ending September 30, 2024. The Trump administration will begin collecting the delinquent payments starting May 5. Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough, president of Talladega College, told Black Press USA, “We can have that conversation about people paying their loans as long as we talk about the broader income inequality. Put everything on the table, put it on the table, and we can have a conversation.” Kimbrough asserts, “The big picture is that Black people have a fraction of wealth of white so you’re… already starting with a gap and then when you look at higher education, for example, no one talks about Black G.I.’s that didn’t get the G.I. Bill. A lot of people go to school and build wealth for their family…Black people have a fraction of wealth, so you already start with a wide gap.”

According to the Education Data Initiative, https://educationdata.org/average-time-to-repay-student-loans It takes the average borrower 20 years to pay their student loan debt. It also highlights how some professional graduates take over 45 years to repay student loans. A high-profile example of the timeline of student loan repayment is the former president and former First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama, who paid off their student loans by 2005 while in their 40s. On a related note, then-president Joe Biden spent much time haggling with progressives and Democratic leaders like Senators Elizabeth Warren and Chuck Schumer on Capitol Hill about whether and how student loan forgiveness would even happen.

Oakland Post

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VIDEO: The Rev. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. at United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent

https://youtu.be/Uy_BMKVtRVQ Excellencies: With all protocol noted and respected, I am speaking today on behalf of the Black Press of America and on behalf of the Press of People of African Descent throughout the world. I thank the Proctor Conference that helped to ensure our presence here at the Fourth Session of the […]

Published

3 days ago

April 23, 2025

Oakland Post

https://youtu.be/Uy_BMKVtRVQ

Excellencies:

With all protocol noted and respected, I am speaking today on behalf of the Black Press of America and on behalf of the Press of People of African Descent throughout the world. I thank the Proctor Conference that helped to ensure our presence here at the Fourth Session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent.

The focus on AI and digital equity is urgent within the real time realities today where there continues to be what is referred to as the so called mainstream national and international media companies that systematically undergird racism and imperialism against the interests of People of African Descent.

We therefore call on this distinguished gathering of leaders and experts to challenge member states to cite and to prevent the institutionalization of racism in all forms of media including social media, AI and any form of digital bias and algorithmic discrimination.

We cannot trust nor entertains the notion that former and contemporary enslavers will now use AI and digital transformation to respect our humanity and fundamental rights.

Lastly we recommend that a priority should be given to the convening of an international collective of multimedia organizations and digital associations that are owned and developed by Africans and People of African Descent.

Basta the crimes against our humanity!

Basta Racism!

Basta Imperialism!

A Luta Continua!

Victory is certain!