Affordable Housing
In New York State this week, The Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act (FBAHA) was introduced, which aims to empower religious organizations by removing zoning barriers and providing training in real estate and affordable housing. By utilizing their underutilized land, these organizations can contribute to solving the housing shortage and improving community well-being. Bricks and Mortals and other faith-based organizations throughout New York City and the State have been partnering on this effort.
This Act is similar to California’s SB4, Affordable Housing on Faith Lands Act, which became law in October of this year.
To request a briefing on the Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act, click here!
In Rochester, Minnesota, faith communities are proactively addressing affordable housing and homelessness. Interfaith communities in the city currently assist with meals and clothing drives and actively seek solutions to the housing crisis. Initiatives include purchasing properties, partnering with nonprofits, and supporting Habitat for Humanity projects.
Faith communities have emphasized the importance of addressing systemic issues and advocating for policy changes to combat housing insecurity. Despite facing legal disputes and limited resources, these communities remain committed to impacting this issue and translating their beliefs into tangible actions for affordable housing.
South Carolina State Representative Wendell Jones has proposed legislation to address the affordable housing crisis in the state by granting tax-exempt status to properties used as affordable housing owned by religious institutions. The proposal aims to increase the availability of affordable housing for low-income and middle-income families. Under the plan, religious institutions recognized as nonprofit organizations could utilize contiguous property for building affordable housing without losing their property tax-exempt status. The rental rates for these units would be set at 60% or less of the median household income in the respective county. The bill aims to encourage churches to contribute to addressing the housing crisis while not taking away funds from the state.
Houses of Worship Security
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a new guide aimed at helping houses of worship protect themselves during heightened tensions in faith-based communities across the United States. The 16-page document, "Physical Security Performance Goals for Faith-Based Communities" provides practical and easy-to-understand guidance for faith groups on enhancing their security measures. The guide covers various aspects, including maintaining well-trimmed landscaping to prevent hiding places for attackers and implementing plans for emergencies. It also highlights federal government grants and additional resources to support security improvements. The DHS aims to safeguard the freedom and safety of Americans to practice their faith in a secure environment.
Funding for security for houses of worship is also available via New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Nonprofit Security Grants. The next round of grants is expected to be released in the spring of 2024. Please contact Grant.Info@dhses.ny.gov for questions about the grant program or to be placed on the mailing list for future correspondence regarding the program.
Bricks and Mortals December membership meeting discussed security for houses of faith. If you’re already a member, you can find the recording and meeting materials in the Membership Portal on our website; if you’re not already a Bricks and Mortals member, apply now and get all of the benefits and resources we have to offer!
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