BALTIMORE —
U.S. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), today addressed the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition’s (MAHC) annual meeting, telling the group that “we must do more to create affordable housing in this nation.”
  The Senator also received the MAHC’s Leadership Award for his long-time commitment to provide quality, affordable housing for low-income Americans.

Senator Cardin stressed that the economic downturn has seriously harmed the most vulnerable Americans, and he said he would like to see help for rebuilding abandoned and neglected housing included in the economic recovery package.

 “It is critical that we do all we can to help finance affordable housing in this country,” said
Senator Cardin, a member of the Senate Budget Committee.  “I am committed to working with the Obama Administration and the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition to keep the American Dream alive during these difficult economic times by helping stem foreclosures and by expanding access to low-cost financing.  We also need to ensure that the supply of affordable rental housing is adequate to meet increased demand.”

Senator Cardin has supported the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund and the Low-Income House Tax Credit, which has led to the construction and renovation of approximately 2 million multifamily affordable rental housing units.

In his remarks, Senator Cardin also stressed the need to make a major investment in constructing additional low-income housing that takes advantage of “green” technology.
  “It makes sense to use technology that can help reduce home heating costs while also protecting our environment.”