NC Housing Day 2026
Written by Faith Triggs, Senior Advocacy Specialist
With access to affordable housing continuing to be a major roadblock for many in our region, over 170 housing advocates recently gathered in Raleigh to encourage state legislators to act on several solutions. This year’s coalition for the 2026 NC Housing Day included Habitat for Humanity of North Carolina, the North Carolina Housing Coalition; the North Carolina Coalition to end Homelessness, and the North Carolina Community Land Trust Coalition.
Habitat Charlotte Region Board Member and Advocacy Committee Chair Jay Tillman, and Critical Home Repair recipient, Perneice “Neicy” Mendez joined these advocates to represent the affiliate. They met with State Senators DeAndrea Salvador and Vickie Sawyer; and State Representatives Carolyn Logan, Terry Brown, Mary Belk, and Brandon Lofton.
This year’s call for support included the following:
- $10M for the state’s Housing Trust Fund
- Funding Workforce Housing Loan Program (gap financing particularly for rural communities and “low-wealth areas”)
- Support for the Affordable Housing Infrastructure Revolving Loan Program – HB 1072 (filed 4/28/2026)
- Improving Property Tax Relief Programs
- Support for the Affordable Housing Exemption Modifications – HB 1042 (cuts loopholes allowing private developers to take advantage of tax breaks meant for providers who are working to expand and maximize affordable housing). The coalition is concerned with a proposed change from 10 years to 5 years for projects to be developed, eliminating land banking opportunities. Exempted property taxes would have to be paid if projects are not developed within five years.
“Engaging in this process and having direct exposure to elected officials has increased my understanding of the complexities and deterrents of homeownership, Tillman said. “Seeing the power of advocacy through a coalition of organizations and volunteers fighting to preserve our most sacred and fundamental values as Americans (Homeownership) renewed my faith in our ability as citizens to continue fighting for affordable housing and to remain diligent in the quest for reasonable affordability measures toward homeownership.”
Through the coalition, these advocates will continue to work with state legislators as they seek to expand opportunities not only for communities served by Habitat, but for all of our neighbors! Mendez said it best: “I hope they hear with a heart of understanding how having an affordable home, owning a home and maintaining a home gives stability and peace of mind.”