FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MARCH 4, 2025 Thousands of Idahoans will be Affected by the Loss of Funding for Fair Housing

Thousands of Idahoans will be Affected by the Loss of Funding for Fair Housing Boise, Idaho – Intermountain Fair Housing Council (IFHC) announced the sudden termination of their Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) grants by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). On the evening of February 27, 2025, HUD notified IFHC that they were to suspend program-related activities immediately – effectively halting critical fair housing efforts without notice. The termination of this critical funding will significantly curtail assistance to low-income families, people with disabilities, seniors, and veterans. IFHC’s funding loss totaled $508,946 and supported wide-ranging initiatives, from complaint investigations to community training sessions. The organization has consistently received excellent performance ratings in prior grant evaluations for thirty plus years. And did not receive any information regarding why their grants had been selected for termination. Prior to the termination, IFHC was on track to provide vital legal and educational services to thousands of residents across the state. Together, they planned to distribute informational materials, create media campaigns, expand hotline support, and conduct fair housing outreach events. The abrupt cancellation has forced both nonprofits to close active cases, scale back services, and cancel vendor contracts that support local economies. “The termination of these grants – without warning or a clear explanation – has left Idaho renters, homeowners, and prospective tenants in limbo,” said Zoe Ann Olson, Executive Director of Intermountain Fair Housing Council, Inc. “We are now calling on our elected officials and community partners to identify alternative resources so that fair housing protections remain strong and accessible in Idaho.” IFHC has reached out to Idaho’s congressional delegation, requesting information on a potential path forward that ensures continued fair housing services. Community members and partner organizations seeking more information or wishing to offer support are encouraged to contact Peg Richards, Intermountain Fair Housing Council, Inc. Education Director, at 208-383-0695 or at prichards@ifhcidaho.org.