AKRON, Ohio — U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia L. Fudge were in Akron today as part of their efforts to improve access to safe, affordable housing across the country.
During the visit to I Promise Housing, they were joined by Akron Mayor Shammas Malik, Stephanie Myers from the LeBron James Foundation, Cheryl Steves, Chief Executive Officer and President of the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation, and Jeanette Brown, a resident of I Promise Housing.
“Housing continues to be the single highest monthly expense for people across Ohio’s 13th Congressional District. I was glad to welcome Secretary Fudge back to Northeast Ohio to highlight local efforts to improve access to safe, affordable housing and discuss how the Invest In America agenda is lowering housing costs for people in our communities,” said Rep. Sykes. “I’m committed to ensuring everyone in our district has a safe, affordable and sustainable place to call home.”
“Over the last 3 years, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to improve our economy, small businesses, and families while the world was grappling with the effects of a global wide pandemic,” said HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “Part of this investment is ensuring that communities have access to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing and I am deeply proud of the work we’ve done at HUD to help boost the quality of life for thousands of families by making their homes safer and more comfortable.”
The visit was also highlighted by a round table discussion about homeowner assistance programs and the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority led Summit Lake Choice Neighborhoods comprehensive neighborhood transformation plan.
“In leading the Summit Lake Choice Neighborhood Project, we recognize the pivotal role of collaboration and partnerships in our mission to revitalize communities and uplift lives,” said Herman Hill, Executive Director, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority. “Secretary Marsha Fudge and Congresswoman Sykes have demonstrated unwavering commitment by dedicating their time to hold this roundtable about our project, underscoring the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change. Together, with our esteemed partners, we embark on a transformative journey to breathe new life into Summit Lake, forging a brighter future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive."