TRENTON – Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network) President and CEO Staci Berger issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell (NJ-9):

“We are absolutely shattered by the loss of Representative Pascrell, a hero to those he served and a friend to those who knew him. For more than 35 years, he dedicated his life to making Paterson and the State of New Jersey a truly equitable and inclusive place where everyone can afford to thrive. He understood that health is housing and supported efforts to address our nation’s housing crisis, especially during the pandemic when safe shelter was our best defense against the virus.

“In 2021, the Network honored Rep. Pascrell for his work as a champion in housing and community development by presenting him with the Jerry Green Legacy Award, named after his former colleague in the Assembly who also worked tirelessly to make NJ a place everyone can afford to call home. He will be deeply missed, and we offer our most sincere condolences to the Pascrell family and to all those on whose lives he left a lasting impact.”

About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is the statewide association of more than 275 community development corporations, individuals and other organizations that support the creation of affordable homes, economic opportunities, and strong communities. For more information on the Network, visit www.hcdnnj.org.