The Problem

Too many Americans lack access to safe, affordable housing and face food insecurity. 14% of US households spend over 50% of their income on housing costs. And 10% of households were food insecure in 2020 according to USDA data.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues with job losses and school closures. But housing and hunger challenges have persisted in America for decades despite our nation’s immense wealth and resources.

Inadequate wages, rising rents, gentrification, lack of affordable housing units, and gaps in assistance programs contribute to keeping basic needs out of reach for millions. This is unacceptable and demands bold solutions.

The lack of affordable housing also has ripple effects on families. Long commutes to find an affordable place to live means less family time and higher transportation costs. Frequent moves due to rent increases causes stress and disrupts kids’ education. Homelessness leads to fragmented healthcare and poor outcomes. Safe, stable housing is essential.

At the same time, lack of nutritious food particularly harms child development. Kids experiencing hunger are more likely to have behavioral issues, get sick, and struggle academically. These early setbacks shape their entire lives. We are failing the next generation.

How We Will Solve the Problem Together

As your Senator, I will prioritize policies and investments to ensure all Americans can access nutritious food and affordable housing.

I will expand proven federal food assistance programs like SNAP and school meal programs. And I will boost public-private partnerships that connect underserved neighborhoods with grocery stores, food banks, and urban farms.

On housing, I will fight for subsidies, grants, and tax credits to rapidly construct new affordable units and rehabilitate existing ones. Stronger rent control and just cause eviction laws are also needed nationwide.

I am particularly excited about the potential for 3D printed affordable housing, pioneered by innovators like New Story. We can replicate their successful model of providing 3D printed homes with microloans that enable low-income families to eventually own their home. Public-private partnerships can make this a reality.

Comprehensive living wage, paid leave, and childcare legislation will address the root economic causes of hunger and unaffordable housing over the long term.

We must also tackle homelessness humanely. I will fund supportive housing programs that provide social services alongside transitional housing. And I will invest in mental health and addiction treatment to help break the cycle of chronic homelessness.

At the federal level, I will eliminate “exclusionary zoning” practices that prohibit affordable housing in certain neighborhoods. Discriminatory zoning contradicts fair housing laws.

How We Will Advance the Issue in Washington, DC and Maryland

As your Senator, I will prioritize policies and investments to ensure all Americans can access nutritious food and affordable housing.

I will expand proven federal food assistance programs like SNAP and school meal programs. And I will boost public-private partnerships that connect underserved neighborhoods with grocery stores, food banks, and urban farms.

On housing, I will fight for subsidies, grants and tax credits to rapidly construct new affordable units and rehabilitate existing ones. Stronger rent control and just cause eviction laws are also needed nationwide.

I will also leverage federal resources to support local initiatives tailored to Maryland’s needs. For example, empowering community land trusts to acquire properties for affordable housing, and funding meal programs that address child hunger during summer breaks.

Listening to those directly impacted will inform smart policies. I pledge to uplift the voices of families struggling with housing costs, evictions, and putting food on the table. Your experiences will drive solutions.

Comprehensive living wage, paid leave and childcare legislation will address the root economic causes of hunger and unaffordable housing over the long term.

The Benefits for America and Maryland

With safe housing and food security, families will finally have the foundation to pursue better jobs, education and healthcare. Kids’ development will improve dramatically. And consumer spending will provide an economic boost.

Let’s build an America where no one has to worry about keeping a roof over their heads or food on the table. I’m committed to making this a reality.

Safe, stable housing and nutrition will reshape lives and strengthen communities. Parents will gain financial stability to invest in the future. Kids will grow into healthy, successful adults. Seniors will age with dignity. And neighborhoods will thrive when every resident’s basic needs are met.