“
The Housing Act of 1949 also establishes as a national objective
the achievement as soon as feasible of a decent home and a suitable living
environment for every American family, and sets forth the policies to be
followed in advancing toward that goal. These policies are thoroughly
consistent with American ideals and traditions. They recognize and
preserve local responsibility, and the primary role of private enterprise,
in meeting the Nation’s housing needs. But they also recognize clearly
”
the necessity for appropriate Federal aid to supplement the resources
of communities and private enterprise.
Photo: Wally Gobetz/flickr.com
Statement by President Harry Truman
upon signing the Housing Act of 1949
The Silent Housing Crisis: A Snapshot of Current and Future Conditions
3