Torres Announces $500,000 in Federal Funding for Fair Housing in Inland Empire

Statement

ONTARIO -- Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) today announced that Ontario's Inland Fair Housing and Mediation Board (IFHMB) received two grants totaling $500,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The two grants, $125,000 and $375,000 respectively, will be used to promote fair housing and assist victims of housing discrimination.

Rep. Torres released the following statement:

"As the Inland Empire recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, fair housing support is crucial," said Rep. Norma J. Torres. "The Inland Fair Housing and Mediation Board's work is critical for communities in my district as they struggle to obtain housing security. The grants that I am announcing today will ensure that the IFHMB has the funds necessary to continue providing fair housing, education, outreach, and enforcement activities to underserved areas in the Inland Empire."

"Earlier this year, I introduced the Keep Your Home and Prevent Homelessness Act to assist renters, homeowners, and homeless individuals keep or find a home," continued Torres. "Additionally, I was also able to secure $54 million in funding for affordable housing in the Inland Empire as part of the American Rescue Plan. I'll continue fighting to address the housing shortage in our region and making sure all our working families can keep a roof over their heads."
Ontario's Inland Fair Housing and Mediation Board (IFHMB) serves San Bernardino County and parts of Riverside and Imperial Counties as an intermediary to assist individuals in resolving issues related to housing discrimination, homeownership sustainability, rental complaints, and disputes in court. IFHMB will use these funds to promote fair housing outreach and provide fair housing education on emerging issues related to COVID-19.

Congresswoman Torres is a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, and sits on the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee, which funds the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Torres previously announced additional grants to IFHMD.

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