Fostering Self-Sufficiency
Housing Alliance :: Press Releases

U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen Receives National Recognition for Contributions to Affordable Housing and Community Development
NeighborWorks® America Honors Frelinghuysen with Government Service Award

September 5, 2006 – Morristown, NJ – Congressman Rodney P. Frelinghuysen (R-NJ) has been recognized by NeighborWorks® America for his leadership in expanding the affordable housing supply for low- and moderate-income families and strengthening communities.  He was nominated by The Housing Partnership for Morris County and was recently honored at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.

"I thank NeighborWorks® America for this distinguished award and remain steadfast in my commitment to serve the public by supporting housing opportunities for all citizens, in particular the elderly, the disabled and the homeless," said Congressman Frelinghuysen. 

Frelinghuysen's long record of service in the housing arena includes his leadership in raising the limits on single-family mortgages insured by the FHA and his annual advocacy for HUD housing programs that produce new affordable and accessible community housing. As a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, he has helped to ensure the availability of decent, safe and affordable housing for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities along with their families.

"Congressman Frelinghuysen has shown an unwavering support for public policies that advance community revitalization goals," said Ken Wade, CEO, NeighborWorks® America. "His leadership has helped transform communities and we are proud to honor him for his invaluable service." 

The NeighborWorks® Government Service Award recognizes and honors elected or appointed public officials at the local, state and federal levels who have made significant contributions both personally and through the advancement of public policies that revitalize communities and increase the supply of affordable housing. 

Wade commended Congressman Frelinghuysen for understanding the far-reaching impact of housing issues on individuals, the local economy and the entire nation. For every dollar spent on quality, affordable housing, at least ten dollars are returned in the form of job creation, increased independence and tax contributions, new businesses, and access to higher education.

Prior to his career at the federal level, Frelinghuysen was a member of the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders and was instrumental in the establishment of the Morris County Housing Authority.  Additionally, as a member of the New Jersey State Assembly, he was the prime advocate for legislation that established group homes for citizens affected by mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

"With so many Americans struggling to afford housing, the commitment demonstrated by Congressman Frelinghuysen at the state and federal government level is ever more important," said Wade.  "He recognizes the multiple dividends paid through affordable housing in the form of improved community safety, stronger civic engagement and better outcomes for low- and moderate-income families."

For more information about the NeighborWorks® Government Service Awards and the 2006 award winners, please visit click here.

Note to editors – Congressman Frelinghuysen and Ken Wade are available for interviews. Please call contact.

About NeighborWorks® America
NeighborWorks® America provides financial support, technical assistance and training for communities across the nation, including the NeighborWorks® network – a nationwide network of more than 240 community development organizations working in more than 4,400 urban, suburban and rural communities across America. These organizations engage in revitalization strategies that strengthen communities and transform lives. In the last five years alone, NeighborWorks® organizations have generated more than $10 billion in reinvestment and helped more than 780,000 families of modest means purchase or improve their homes or secure safe, decent rental or mutual housing.

About Housing Partnership for Morris County
The Housing Partnership for Morris County is a non-profit organization which provides resources for individuals, organizations and municipalities to plan for and meet their affordable housing needs. Founded in 1992, its Trustees and Advisory Council members are comprised of a coalition of: housing experts, business leaders, attorneys, municipal officials, community leaders, bankers, planners, realtors, educators and non-profit organizations.

Contact
Amy Bacon Volpe
Stewart Communications, Ltd.
312.751.0147 x228