Contact: Brian Pacheco, Director of Public Relations
t. 212-577-7709 | c. 646-306-1136 | e. Brian.Pacheco@safehorizon.org
February 13, 2018 (NEW YORK, NY) – On February 13, 2018, President Trump released his budget proposal for the federal Fiscal Year 2019 that includes deep cuts to some federal agencies and programs, including a proposed elimination of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).
CDBG is a funding stream from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). CDBG offers a flexible source of funds that localities across the country use in a variety of ways to strengthen communities. In New York City, the Mayor’s office uses CDBG funding to help support Safe Horizon’s 24-hour Hotlines, as well as other programs.
Safe Horizon CEO Ariel Zwang: “We are alarmed and disappointed by President Trump’s proposal to eliminate the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). This funding stream supports Safe Horizon’s core programs for victims of violence and abuse, including our Hotlines. Last year, our staff answered nearly 100,000 calls from people in crisis. This included approximately 80,000 calls to our Domestic Violence Hotline. Eliminating CDBG funding could reduce services for survivors of abuse. Especially given the recent resignations of White House staff due to allegations of domestic violence, the President should demonstrate his commitment to supporting survivors, instead of reducing services. Safe Horizon will be vigorously advocating with federal lawmakers to preserve CDBG funding. When a survivor calls our hotline, we must ensure there is someone on the other end to answer the call.”
Help us ensure that funding for lifesaving services continues. Please support Safe Horizon’s advocacy efforts with your gift today.
To learn more our Safe Horizon’s advocacy efforts, visit safehorizon.org/advocacy.