Houston, Texas– Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee released the following statement at a ground breaking ceremony of the rebuilding of Gloria Jack’s home:

 “This ceremony marks a celebration of new beginnings for Gloria Jack and her family. It is also a great illustration of how the Houston Community can truly unite around a common cause and not only rebuild this house but also strengthen this wonderful community.

 “The deterioration of this home was a direct result of the City of Houston’s Housing and Community and Development Department failure to address thousands of housing repairs requested by seniors and disabled citizens who qualify for the Single Family Home Repair Program, leaving many in deplorable living conditions.

 “While we celebrate the rebuilding of Gloria Jacks home, we must also remember thousands of housing repairs requested by seniors and disabled citizens who are still suffering from the neglect of the backlogged requests. The city of Houston’s Housing and Community and Development Department must be held accountable for the backlog of requests that have been ignored for so long. Our citizens should be able to have full confidence that city and federal programs will promptly address these issues.

 “Over the past several years, I have worked very hard to address the many housing issues that Houston has faces, and this situation is of particular urgency because it directly affects our lower income senior citizens and members of the disabled community. I will be tirelessly working with the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development to make sure that the city of Houston reforms the Single Family Home Repair Program. Addressing the backlog request is a matter of life and death to thousands across Houston, and the great citizens of Houston deserve better.”

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