UTICA, NY — On Friday, September 19, Central New York residents will participate in a panel discussion to highlight the real-life impact of proposed cuts to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) budget. The event will take place at the Utica Public Library, with local leaders and residents sharing their stories and concerns.
The Trump administration has proposed a 44% cut to the HUD budget for fiscal year 2026, directly affecting critical programs like Section 8 rental assistance, public housing, and homeless services. While the House and Senate rejected the most extreme cuts that the administration proposed, the funding for federal housing assistance in their budget bills still falls far short of what’s needed. The potential loss of more than $4.4 billion in federal housing funds for New York State could sharply increase housing instability and homelessness in Central New York. With the September 30 deadline for a new budget or continuing resolution approaching, this issue is both timely and urgent.
The panel discussion will conclude with a presentation of a letter from residents, tenants, and organizations to the Central New York congressional delegation, urging them to oppose these cuts and to advocate for increased funding for these vital programs.
Event Details
WHO:
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Residents from Central New York
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Central York chapter of Citizen Action of New York
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The Greater Syracuse Tenant Network
WHAT: A public panel discussion and presentation of a letter to the New York State congressional delegation, detailing the anticipated impact of proposed HUD budget cuts.
WHEN: Friday, September 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM.
WHERE: Music Room, 2nd Floor, Utica Public Library, 303 Genesee Street, Utica, NY. (Elevator access is available, with parking in the rear of the building on Park Avenue.) If you’re unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed here.
WHY: To bring awareness to the proposed HUD budget cuts and to advocate for the continuation of crucial housing and homeless assistance programs that serve thousands of households in New York.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES: Photo opportunities and interviews will be available with residents directly impacted by these proposed changes, as well as with representatives from participating organizations.
