Jiménez Lauds National Recognition of IHDA for Affordable Housing, Homelessness Prevention Initiatives

CHICAGO – State Rep. Lilian Jiménez, D-Chicago, issued the following statement regarding the recent national recognition of the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) on their work to prevent homelessness, divert homeless populations and bolster affordable housing initiatives throughout the state.

“Illinois is taking bold steps towards making it easier for families to own a home, and I am glad that IHDA is receiving its due recognition for the programs they lead,” Jiménez said. “It’s no small feat for a family in this economy to find and secure housing at an affordable price, but IHDA’s nationally-recognized programs are ensuring that more can achieve their financial goals and true housing security. The housing crisis is a complex problem that will continue to take innovative solutions, and Springfield is committed to facilitating that conversation.”

The National Council of State Housing Agencies recognized two of IHDA’s initiatives for Program Excellence: Access Plus Financing Initiative and Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP).

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, Illinois’ homeless population increased by 116% in early 2024.

Jiménez, as chair of the House Housing Committee, continues to fight for people-focused solutions to the state’s rising housing cost challenge. Last session, she passed Senate Bill 1261 which restarts the Community Land Trust Task Force established in 2023 to study the creation, development and use of Community Land Trusts (CLTs) as they work to address the rising costs of housing. Additionally, her legislation would increase access to grants available through the Illinois Housing Development Authority to help CLTs with capacity building and housing development.