Habitat for Humanity has assisted more than 65 million people in building or improving homes across more than 60 countries for 50 years. Advocates gather in Washington, D.C. for Habitat on the Hill, an annual conference focused on housing issues and advancing solutions in the United States and internationally. In 2026, more than 400 housing advocates traveled to Capitol Hill, representing over 900 local and state Habitat affiliates and more than 60 national offices around the world. Together, supporters met with members of Congress to encourage stronger policies and investments that increase access to affordable housing.
Habitat’s national advocacy platform
During the conference, Habitat for Humanity International Office highlighted its FY 2027 federal funding priorities, which include the Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP), the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and the Section 502 Direct Loan Program, each part of Habitat’s national advocacy platform. In addition to these funding priorities, two other housing proposals currently under consideration in Congress were also discussed.
The ROAD to Housing Act (Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream) includes a number of provisions designed to address the national housing shortage. These measures range from promoting financial literacy, expanding housing development in Opportunity Zones to exploring research related to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development work requirements.
Another proposal, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, seeks to strengthen policies that support the construction and preservation of affordable housing, expand financing tools for housing development, and improve coordination across federal, state, and local housing systems.
Events like Habitat on the Hill demonstrate the power of collective advocacy.
Tools to get organized and practice your pitch
For the second year, I had the opportunity to share my story and meet with elected officials to advocate for affordable housing. Preparation is key to clearly and effectively communicating the needs of your community. The diagram below can help you create a simple outline for your next meeting with an elected official. Practice each section ahead of time to keep meetings focused.
Start with an introduction that explains who you are, the organization you represent, and its mission. When explaining why you are here, remember that many elected officials value local stories supported by data. If you need guidance, consider using the Center for Community Solutions’ Telling Your Story with Data – Working Towards Change worksheet.
Clearly identify the issue so your legislative asks are easy to understand. Be prepared to answer questions, and close by thanking the official for their time. Leave behind a one-page summary and, if possible, a short brochure.
Be sure to obtain contact information for the officials or their aides. Bob Whitney, Director of Government Affairs, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cleveland said, “We’ve built a lot of relationships from these meetings, and being sure that you get a card and contact info is a simple way to start an ongoing relationship.”
More experienced coalitions or organizations might find Habitat for Humanity’s Strengthening Your Advocacy Foundation worksheet beneficial in evaluating your current efforts and identifying opportunities for improvement.
Events like Habitat on the Hill demonstrate the power of collective advocacy. When homeowners, nonprofit leaders, and housing advocates come together to share their experiences, they help policymakers better understand the real impacts of housing challenges. Continued engagement with Congress is essential to advancing solutions that expand access to safe, stable, and affordable homes. Whether you are new to advocacy or a seasoned advocate, your voice and datastory can play an important role in shaping housing policy and strengthening communities.
