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 Donald Payne (NJ-10):

“Representative Payne’s passing is a heartbreaking loss for the residents of this state. He was a dedicated public servant, leading on behalf of his neighbors in Essex County with integrity and compassion. A friend to the Network, Rep. Payne was one of the most approachable members of Congress, taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with us whenever we were in the district or in Washington, DC.

“We just had the pleasure of meeting with him last month to discuss ways to build strong, healthy, and affordable communities. As always, he was supportive as he too understood that housing is a human right.

“He once said, ‘When more than half of your income goes to your rent, there is little else you have for the bare necessities.’ He then backed his words with action by sponsoring numerous pieces of legislation to address our nation’s housing crisis. Rep. Payne will be deeply missed, and we send our sincere condolences to the Payne 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.