THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY OFFICE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION
3003 N. Charles Street, Suite 100
Baltimore, Maryland 21218-3843
Phone: (410) 516-7160 / Fax (410) 516-5251
May 19, 1999
MEDIA CONTACT:
Glenn Small
(410) 516-6094
[email protected]
MEDIA ADVISORY: RESEARCHER EXPLORES RELATIONSHIP OF ASSISTED HOUSING, WELFARE REFORM
The United States spends $28 billion a year on assisted housing programs, more than the $20 billion spent annually on welfare, and yet the national focus on welfare reform as a means to self-sufficiency has not included a serious look at housing policy.
Sandra J. Newman, interim director of the Johns Hopkins University Institute for Policy Studies, says housing policy should be considered when evaluating welfare reform programs -- something that is not happening now. This is the subject of "The Home Front: Implications of Welfare Reform for Housing Policy," edited by Newman and just published by the Urban Institute Press.
"The book implicitly asks a central question," Newman said. "How do people react to the housing subsidy? Does a guarantee of affordable and decent housing serve as a springboard to help get people into the economic mainstream, or does it serve as a cushion so they are less motivated to comply with welfare reform because their housing is secure?"
"There's a substantial overlap between families who receive welfare and those who receive housing assistance," Newman continued. "In fact, when welfare reform began to be implemented, about one and a half million families were receiving both."
Newman is a researcher who looks at housing, social welfare and long-term care policy issues. To arrange an interview, please call Glenn Small at the above number or send an e-mail message.
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