Dear Editor:
We, at the Hoboken Housing Authority, have had a very eventful summer. Our residents have been enjoying more programming then ever thanks to the tireless advocacy of U.S. Senator Robert Menendez and U.S. Rep. Albio Sires who value the need for meaningful community development. We strive to not only create healthier lifestyles, but to provide the best affordable quality living possible. We have made many effective capital improvements and none of this would have been possible without Senator Menendez’s continued demands to increase or preserve our funding for public housing programs in a time when funds are being cut and sequestered. You ask, who’s primarily affected, those we serve with the greatest need, the working poor, the disabled, elderly and children, our most precious resources.
U.S. Senator Menendez has once again sponsored the Choice Neighborhood bill, which would allow more funding for revitalization and affordable housing to be preserved. U.S. Senator Menendez and Congressman Sires have worked on new legislation protecting the rights of our residents as well as the funding we so desperately need and we appreciate their efforts.
We are fortunate this year with expanded programs to include partners in prevention and WISE which helps families and seniors deal with everyday challenges. Our younger residents are building their self-esteem and discipline with karate for kids and our partnership with the library to establish project read a book. On the side of community involvement we have hosted resident appreciation days, a phenomenal national night out lead by Sgt. Melissa Gigante and Hoboken Police, the 4th annual summer youth basketball league, annual health fairs and for the first time our annual Father’s Day Bike Rodeo with Bike Hoboken. A special thank you to all of our sponsors who have made these programs possible.
Another asset to our residents is State Senator Brian Stack who always visits us, available to counsel our residents and to offer his services whenever necessary, especially with his Mobile Senate Office giving access to opportunities through state programs.
We are grateful for everything our distinguished legislators have done for us and because of their efforts we are looking forward to an outstanding autumn and winter! We will stay driven, disciplined, determined and diligent in our services to the residents.
Carmelo G. Garcia, MSIS, IM, SPHM, SHRM
Executive Director