Mesa and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are recognizing Fair Housing Month this April, coinciding with the 57th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This milestone brings renewed attention to the act’s ongoing mission of eliminating housing discrimination. Ensuring equal housing opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability remains a core focus for Mesa. Mayor Mark Freeman emphasized this commitment, stating, "We will continue in promoting fair housing and collaborating with other organizations to ensure that every resident in Mesa has access to housing," according to MesaNow.
Mesa is backing its commitment with action, investing in programs like Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grants, and others to support non-profits addressing housing challenges. As the CDBG program marks its 51st anniversary, Mesa highlights the significant improvements it has contributed to, including infrastructure enhancements and financial assistance for housing rehabilitation.
Over the past five years, Mesa has allocated more than $26 million in CDBG funds, leading to measurable results such as housing rehabilitation, upgrades to community facilities, and extensive support for vulnerable populations, particularly in response to the challenges posed by COVID, as reported by MesaNow.
Additionally, Mesa continues to provide support to residents with housing-related questions or concerns, easily accessible through the city's website. The HOME program, which has been active for 31 years, has contributed nearly $7.8 million since Fiscal Year 2021 to housing initiatives and the development of new housing opportunities within the city. These ongoing efforts reflect the city's commitment to maintaining the principles of equity established by the Fair Housing Act over 50 years ago.
