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Children’s HealthWatch Letter to the House Financial Services Committee

On October 20, 2021, Children’s HealthWatch sent a letter to Chairwoman Waters and distinguished members of the House Financial Services Committee.

During a time families of young children, particularly Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and immigrant families – are experiencing alarming rates of housing instability and homelessness, which imperil their health, we call upon you to invest in high-quality, affordable housing necessary for financial stability and good health. Children’s HealthWatch is a network of pediatricians and public health researchers with over two decades of experience documenting the effect of economic conditions and policy changes on the health and cognitive development of young children and their families. Our research consistently shows it is critical for the health and well-being of children and their parents to implement policies that ensure all families can meet basic needs, including housing. As leaders in Congress negotiate the Build Back Better Act, we urge you to prioritize robust investments in housing vouchers, public housing, and the National Housing Trust Fund (HTF). These vital housing programs directly and effectively serve families with the lowest incomes and marginalized households with the greatest needs. These investments will be essential to support an equitable recovery.