HOME realizes that awareness is the key to people understanding their rights.
Take a look at some of the places we have appeared in the media recently.
2025
April 9, 2025
Investigative Post. “Buffalo landlord settles housing discrimination lawsuit”
www.investigativepost.org/2025/04/09/landlord-settles-lawsuit-buffalo-fruit-belt/
March 4, 2025
Investigative Post. “An unusual housing discrimination case.”
https://www.investigativepost.org/2025/03/04/city-files-third-fair-housing-lawsuit/
January 28, 2025
WBFO, “City of Buffalo offloads some federal funds in response to Trump's memo.”
https://www.wbfo.org/from-wbfo-and-our-partners/2025-01-28/city-of-buffalo-offloads-some-federal-funds-in-response-to-trumps-memo
January 28, 2025
WGRZ, “Buffalo rushes to protect federal funds amid nationwide freeze scare.”
https://www.wgrz.com/article/news/local/common-council-votes-advance-federal-dollars-to-bura-to-protect-against-trumps-planned-funding-pause/71-46e3cecf-f927-4295-b703-93356061ceeb
January 18, 2025
Buffalo News, “Realtor accused of housing discrimination claims 'spies' wrongly targeted him.” https://buffalonews.com/news/local/buffalo-east-side-housing-opportunities-made-equal-lawsuit-avant-realty-charles-glander/article_42415e1e-d4f8-11ef-bee7-a3de4b25a036.html
January 13, 2025
NAACP Legal Defense Fund “LDF Files Complaint Against New York-Based Real Estate Company Following Investigation of Racial Discrimination in Housing Practices.”
https://www.naacpldf.org/press-release/ldf-files-complaint-against-new-york-based-real-estate-company-following-investigation-of-racial-discrimination-in-housing-practices/
January 13, 2025
Investigative Post, “NAACP legal arm sues Realtor alleging racial steering.” https://www.investigativepost.org/2025/01/13/naacp-sues-realtor-alleging-racial-steering/
January 13, 2025
WGRZ, “WNY real estate group accused of racial discrimination.”
2024
November 20, 2024
Investigative Post, “Lawsuit Alleges Housing Discrimination Against Families”
Buffalo housing advocates claim discrimination against families. : Investigative Post
November 12, 2024
Investigative Post, “Low Income Tenants for High Income Towns”
Buffalo housing agencies push for Section 8 renting in area suburbs : Investigative Post
November 4, 2024
Weave News, “Interweaving with James J. Coughlin: The Roots of Racial Segregation in Buffalo, NY“
October 24, 2024
Investigative Post, “Buffalo asks judge to dismiss lead inspection lawsuit”
July 30, 2024
Jamestown Post-Journal, “Mental Health Association Recognizes Accomplishments At July Recovery Luncheon.”
July 25, 2024
Buffalo Rising, “27 local nonprofits awarded funding totaling over $645K.”
https://www.buffalorising.com/2024/07/27-local-nonprofits-awarded-funding-totaling-over-645k/
July 23, 2024
Niagara Frontier Publications, “Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo awards more than $645,000 to WNY organizations.”
July 14, 2024
Legacy.com, “John P. ‘Jack’ Courtney.”
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/buffalonews/name/john-courtney-obituary?id=55549748
July 12, 2024
Post-Star, “Community groups, residents ask judge to order Buffalo to do more lead paint inspections.”
July 11, 2024
WGRZ, “Lawsuit filed vs. City of Buffalo over rental inspections.”
July 11, 2024
Buffalo News, “Community groups, residents ask judge to order Buffalo to do more lead paint inspections.”
https://ppgbuffalo.org/news-and-events/news/article:07-11-2024-12-00am-buffalo-news-community-groups-residents-ask-judge-to-order-buffalo-to-do-more-lead-paint-inspections/ or https://buffalonews.com/news/local/buffalo-lead-paint-inspections-partnership-for-the-public-good-dorothy-oatmeyer/article_0a1eb1b0-3fb3-11ef-93cd-ab2a5327b399.html#tracking-source=home-top-story
July 11, 2024
WBFO, “Lawsuit against City of Buffalo seeks full implementation of Proactive Rental Inspections Law.”
July 11, 2024
Investigative Post, “Buffalo sued over inner-city lead poisoning.”
https://www.investigativepost.org/2024/07/11/buffalo-sued-over-inner-city-lead-poisoning/
July 11, 2024
Buffalo News, “Steven Haagsma of Housing Opportunities Made Equal talks about lead paint exposure among Buffalo's.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3pwT-WLqws
July 11, 2024
WKBW, “Community organizations and residents sue City of Buffalo for failure to implement rental inspections law.”
June 25, 2024
Connect Life Drives Helps Sickle Cell Patients (Spotlight on HOME’s Community Health Fair)
https://youtu.be/bVZLFP1Q580?si=IkNAStTokck_4w7O
May 16, 2024
WBEN, “Community advocates call on Buffalo Common Council to ensure implementation of PRI law in budget negotiations.”
May 7, 2024
Buffalo News, “Federal grants to help work by HOME against discrimination in housing.”
May 5, 2024
Buffalo News, “On Zenner Street, a reminder of the dangers posed by Buffalo's vacant buildings.”
February 7, 2024
“$650M for communities that are pro-housing.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWYsrs7Y-bQ
January 21, 2024
“Reasoning elusive for decline at liberal arts colleges.”
2023
December 5, 2023
University at Buffalo School of Law, “If given the choice: The fight for fair housing in Western NY.”
https://www.law.buffalo.edu/links/2023-November/faculty-spotlight.html
November 1, 2022
Buffalo News, “'It is really bad out there': Task force recommends changes to fix Buffalo housing issues.”
November 1, 2023
Black Star News, “New York Attorney General Releases Report Highlighting Deep Racial Gaps In Homeownership.”
October 31, 2023
Black Star News, “New York Attorney General Releases Report Highlighting Deep Racial Gaps In Homeownership.”
October 31, 2023
Long Island, “NY Attorney General Exposes Shocking Racial Disparities in Homeownership, Unveils Bold Policy Proposals to Bridge the Gap.”
October 28, 2023
WGRZ, “HOME Celebrates 60 Years in WNY.”
HOME celebrates 60 years in WNY | wgrz.com
October 26, 2023
Partnership for the Public Good, The Public Good Podcast.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYSJ2u-bBv8
October 19, 2023
Politico, “Hochul’s 87-year-old father dies suddenly during her trip to Israel.”
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/10/19/hochul-father-dies-isreal-trip-00122493
October 11, 2023
WGRZ, “Anniversary gala for Housing Opportunities Made Equal.”
Housing Opportunities Made Equal | wgrz.com
September 29, 2023
SUNY Fredonia, “Fredonia alumnus to examine Buffalo’s history of residential segregation in campus talk.” https://www.fredonia.edu/news/articles/fredonia-alumnus-examine-buffalo%E2%80%99s-history-residential-segregation-campus-talk
September 27, 2023
New York State, “Video, Audio, Photos & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Announces Start of Construction on 76 Unit Affordable Housing Development in Yonkers.”
September 25, 2023
WUFO, “Conversations with Jim Anderson.”
September 8, 2023
WIVB, Daytime Buffalo
https://www.wivb.com/daytime-buffalo/daytime-buffalo-sept-8-2023/; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XX1fPSN3eqw
24 September 2023
WYRK, “You’re Invited To The 10th Annual For Our Daughters Gala.”
https://wyrk.com/ixp/11/p/buffalo-for-our-daughters-gala/
August 27, 2023
STAR 96.1, 92.9 WBUF, 93.7 WBLK, and 106.5 WYRK, “Issues and Views Show on Townsquare Buffalo.”
August 18, 2023
Buffalo News, “Reporters' Notebook: Aug. 18, 2023 – Easy does it.” https://buffalonews.com/news/local/reporters-notebook-aug-18-2023-easy-does-it/article_66a6165e-3cc0-11ee-a41e-df8624f28759.html
August 10, 2023
The Daily Record, “Fourth Department – Landlord/tenant: Housing Opportunities Made Equal v. DASA Properties LLC.” https://nydailyrecord.com/2023/08/10/fourth-department-landlord-tenant-housing-opportunities-made-equal-v-dasa-properties-llc/
August 7, 2023
WBKW, “Community organizers calling for state and local action on opioid epidemic and homelessness crisis.”
Opioid epidemic and homelessness crisis in WNY (wkbw.com)
July 24, 2023
WUFO, Conversations with Jim Anderson
July 12, 2023
Niagara Frontier Publications, “Niagara County Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services partners with HOME and NORLIC for landlord workshop.” https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2023/07/12/156302/niagara-county-department-of-mental-health-and-substance-abuse-services-partners-with-home-and-norlic-for-landlord-workshop
June 30, 2023
WBFO, “Buffalo has an affordable housing problem. A task force has been formed to help solve it.” https://www.wbfo.org/2023-06-30/buffalo-has-an-affordable-housing-problem-a-task-force-has-been-made-to-help-solve-it
June 19, 2023
Daily Kos, “Tim Scott proves that Obama was right to predict he would downplay Racism.” https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2023/6/19/2176207/-Tim-Scott-proves-that-Obama-was-right-to-predict-he-would-downplay-Racism?utm_campaign=recent
June 14, 2023
Buffalo News, “Reporters' Notebook: June 14, 2023 – New frontiers.”
June 9, 2023
New York State, “Video, Audio, Photos & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Delivers Remarks at New York Real Estate Chamber Emerging Leaders and Markets Conference.”
May 21, 2023
Buffalo News, “The Editorial Board: Stopping cycles of racism requires honesty.”
May 11, 2023
Buffalo News, “Erie County legislators disagree on consequences for Clover Group over alleged racist housing policy.”
May 8, 2023
WUFO, “Conversations with Jim Anderson” https://fb.watch/lKG7jfPD2n/
May 7, 2023
Buffalo News, “Senior housing and apartment development firm to face racial discrimination lawsuits.”
May 2, 2023
WBFO, “Buffalo, What's Next? | The Trauma Around ‘Swatting’, Fair Housing in Western New York”
April 23, 2023
Need help with housing? Here are some local resources (wkbw.com)
April 6, 2023
Niagara Gazette, “Fair housing workshop organized for landlords.”
March 21, 2023
CityLand, “Governor Announces Investment in Statewide Fair Housing Testing Program.”
https://www.citylandnyc.org/governor-announces-investment-in-statewide-fair-housing-testing-program/
March 18, 2023
Buffalo News, “The Editorial Board: Housing discrimination is illegal and persistent.”
March 16, 2023
New York State, “More Than 100 Organizations Endorse the New York Housing Compact - Governor Hochul's Plan to Address New York's Housing Crisis.”
March 12, 2023
Buffalo News, “Housing discrimination complaints soared in Western New York in 2022.”
March 11, 2023
Buffalo Criterion, “Funeral Services for Johnnie Mae Mayo Set.”
March 11, 2023
Buffalo Criterion, “HOME Received Near-Record Number of Discrimination Complaints in 2022.”
March 8, 2023
Buffalo News, “Johnnie M. Mayo, 86, first principal of BUILD Academy.”
March 3, 2023
Buffalo News, “Buffalo's housing crisis: 'Lots of evictions' and few affordable places for those struggling to make ends meet.”
February 24, 2023
New York State, “Governor Hochul Announces Expanded Efforts to Combat Housing Discrimination Across New York.”
February 7, 2023
Buffalo News, “New housing task force will tackle Buffalo's 'affordability crisis.' Will this one make a difference?”
January 18, 2023
Hudson Valley One, “’Housing is a human right,’ declares governor Hochul in State of the State speech.”
January 10, 2023
WXXI News, “The big plans and proposals from Hochul's State of the State.”
https://www.wxxinews.org/2023-01-10/the-big-plans-and-proposals-from-hochuls-state-of-the-state
January 10, 2023
The Legislative Gazette, “Housing, Public Safety, Mental Health Among Hochul’s Priorities For Upcoming Session.”
January 10, 2023
New York State, “Remarks as Prepared: Governor Hochul Delivers 2023 State of the State.”
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/remarks-prepared-governor-hochul-delivers-2023-state-state
2022
January 2022
UB Law Links, “Dismantling persistent housing segregation in Erie County.”
https://www.law.buffalo.edu/links/2022-January/housing.html
February 5, 2022
Buffalo Criterion, “Council Declares Support for Good Cause Eviction.”
March 7, 2022
Niagara Frontier Publications, “WNY LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness Fair at NCCC.” https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2022/03/07/150014/wny-lgbtq-health-and-wellness-fair-at-nccc
March 7, 2022
WGRZ, “WNY LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness Fair to be held during LGBTQ+ Health Awareness Week.” https://www.wgrz.com/article/news/local/lgbtq-pride-month/niagara-pride-bringing-back-wny-lgbtq-health-and-wellness-fair-health-awareness-week/71-9f831182-0194-43cd-8ac1-c05a3bc6f326
March 27, 2022
Spectrum News, “Housing expert details available resources, current challenges in today's market.” https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/central-ny/in-focus/2022/03/26/in-focus--dan-corbitt--associate-director-of-housing-opportunities-made-equal#
March 30, 2022
McKnights Senior Living, “Lawsuit alleges disability discrimination at 38 affordable senior housing properties.” https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/home/news/business-daily-news/lawsuit-alleges-disability-discrimination-at-38-affordable-senior-housing-properties/
March 30, 2022
Springfield News-Sun, “Fairfield, Hamilton senior living properties named in federal lawsuit.” https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/news/fairfield-hamilton-senior-living-properties-named-in-federal-lawsuit/TQKPLP6T4VHKTO4FIVNXIKE7DA/
March 31, 2022
Panorama Hispano News, “HOME Joins Six Fair Housing Agencies in Suing Locally Headquartered National Housing Provider for Alleged Disability Discrimination.”
April 5, 2022
The Buffalo News, “Fair housing groups claim Clover Group discriminates against people with disabilities.” https://buffalonews.com/news/local/fair-housing-groups-claim-clover-group-discriminates-against-people-with-disabilities/article_4fa4f2be-b511-11ec-9ed1-bb128dac67e9.html
April 5, 2022
Niagara Frontier Publications, “NORLIC to hold landlord workshop.” https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2022/04/05/150407/norlic-to-hold-landlord-workshop
April 6, 2022
Lockport Union-Sun and Journal, “'Better landlord' seminar organized by local land bank.” https://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/better-landlord-seminar-organized-by-local-land-bank/article_99fe8f48-e641-5a87-81ec-4e7c4d428637.html
April 8, 2022
CBS News, “People of color face higher rental costs than White Americans, Zillow finds.”
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/zillow-black-renters-hispanic-security-deposit/
April 9, 2022
Buffalo Criterion, “HOME Joins Six Fair Housing Agencies in Filing Disability Discrimination Lawsuit.”
April 19, 2022
The Public Good (PPG Radio Show)
https://www.facebook.com/ppg.buffalo.52/videos/527572062101284
May 2022
May 2022. Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, Annual Report 2021. https://issuu.com/cfgbadmin/docs/community_foundation_2021_annual_report_web?fr=sYzU4NTE0NjU3NTE
May 2022
Partnership for the Public Good, “Housing Discrimination Complaint Data in the Buffalo Region.” https://ppgbuffalo.org/files/documents/housing_neighborhoods/general/housingneighborhoods-_housing_discrimination_complaint_data_in_the_buffalo_region.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1TGG-XwBQM1YqQVYodjBd7zQE4_JxDblcmJcMgeloupUlsHVrkc0740SQ
May 14, 2022
Buffalo News, Mary Jo G. Giambelluca Obituary.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/buffalonews/name/mary-giambelluca-obituary?pid=202020418
May 26, 2022
Investigative Post, “City Hall’s paper thin fair housing report.”
https://www.investigativepost.org/2022/05/26/city-halls-paper-thin-fair-housing-report/
May 31, 2022
Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, “Buffalo Together Community Response Fund Announces Efforts to Address Community Need after Jefferson Avenue Tragedy.”
July 6, 2022
Orato, “Buffalo woman witnesses rent hikes, gentrification in Elmwood Village.”
July 8, 2022
Buffalo News, “Buffalo Together grant recipients putting dollars behind ideas.”
Buffalo Together grant recipients putting dollars behind ideas
July 10, 2022
Buffalo News, “Rochester removed racial covenants from some properties. Here's how to research your own land deed.” https://buffalonews.com/news/local/rochester-removed-racial-covenants-from-some-properties-heres-how-to-research-your-own-land-deed/article_fe2658dc-fed6-11ec-8b11-2b497e49476a.html
July 12, 2022
United Way of Erie County, “21-day Racial Equity Challenge.”
https://www.uwbec.org/21daychallenge
July 15, 2022
Niagara Frontier Publications, “Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo awards more than $930,000 to WNY organizations.” https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2022/07/15/151615/community-foundation-for-greater-buffalo-awards-more-than-930000-to-wny-organizations
July 20, 2022
Buffalo News, “Susan Gaska, 72, advocate for women who revived YWCA of Western New York.” https://buffalonews.com/obituaries/features/susan-gaska-72-advocate-for-women-who-revived-ywca-of-western-new-york/article_1def1628-0881-11ed-b1b1-ef65d4007a1e.html
August 10, 2022
WVXU, “3 local senior apartment buildings are part of a federal settlement over disability discrimination.” https://www.wvxu.org/local-news/2022-08-10/3-local-senior-apartment-buildings-are-part-of-a-federal-settlement-over-disability-discrimination
August 10, 2022
Springfield News-Sun, “Hamilton, Fairfield senior living properties part of $7.1M settlement to improve accessibility.” https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/news/hamilton-fairfield-senior-living-properties-part-of-71m-settlement-to-improve-accessibility/QRCLJJWSWFAVDDKP53XPES2KFA/
August 11, 2022
Buffalo News, “Clover Group settles fair-housing lawsuit for $7.1 million.”
August 11, 2022
WGRZ, “Fair housing settlement reached for 11 Erie County senior apartments.”
August 11, 2022
Spectrum News, “Several WNY care facilities to receive new accommodations after settlement.” https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2022/08/12/several-wny-care-facilities-to-receive-new-accommodations-after-settlement
September 21, 2022
UB Spectrum, “We walk in memory of those we lost to suicide’: UB Counseling Services concludes Suicide Prevention Week with Out of the Darkness Walk.”
https://www.ubspectrum.com/article/2022/09/we-walk-in-memory-of-those-we-lost-to-suicide
September 30, 2022
Buffalo Business First, “People on the Move.”
September 30, 2022
Buffalo Business First, “People on the Move: Christopher Allaire.” https://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/potmsearch/detail/submission/6520218/Christopher_Allaire
October 25, 2022
The Buffalo News, “Lupe J. Breen, 87, leading local woman entrepreneur.”
October 18, 2022
Enterprise Community Partners, “New York State Housing Mobility Pilot Program Reports Meaningful and Positive Changes for the Lives of Participating Families.”
https://prrac.org/pdf/mobility-pilot-press-release.pdf
October 18, 2022
Enterprise Community Partners, “A Review of the New York State Housing Mobility Pilot: Lessons from Buffalo, Long Island, and New York City.”
October 19, 2022
Roswell Park, “Dr. Candace Johnson presented with award from HOME, Inc. at annual dinner.” https://www.roswellpark.org/newsroom/202210-roswell-park-president-ceo-honored-advocacy-action-award
October 19, 2022
Partnership for the Public Good, “#716PLAYFAIR COALITION HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE TO CALL FOR COMMUNITY BENEFITS IN NEW BILLS STADIUM DEAL.”
October 11, 2022
Fair housing settlement reached for 11 Erie County senior apartments | wgrz.com
2020
February 4, 2020
First lawsuits filed under Erie County Fair Housing Law allege widespread income discrimination
2019
July 24, 2019
‘American dream’ still comes in black and white
May 14, 2019
Wingo working to protect tenants from unfair rent spikes in City of Buffalo
April 17, 2019
Refugee Health Summit addresses links between housing and health
April 9, 2019
Tonawanda hosts annual fair housing month proclamation
March 26, 2019
Sixth Refugee Health Summit to focus on housing and health
February 6, 2019
2018
December 26/27, 2018
HOME plans training course for landlords: Ken-Ton Bee, Clarence Bee, Cheektowaga Bee, West Seneca Bee, Lancaster Bee, Amherst Bee, East Aurora Bee, Orchard Park Bee
December 13, 2018
Woman Receives Housing Discrimination Settlement
December 6, 2018
HUD Awards $23 Million to Fight Housing Discrimination
December 4, 2018
December 3, 2018
HOME wins settlement for client
November 21-22/28
HOME plans training course for landlords: Ken-Ton Bee, Clarence Bee, Cheektowaga Bee, West Seneca Bee, Lancaster Bee, Amherst Bee
November 14-15, 2018
Erie County law advertisement appears in: The Lancaster Bee, The Amherst Bee, The Clarence Bee, The Ken-Ton Bee, The Cheektowaga Bee
November 8, 2018
HOME receives grant for tech upgrades
October 30, 2018
Eugene V. Debs day coming up on Monday at Mickie’s
October 26, 2018
HOME Receives Grant from the Western New York Foundation for HOME Connect
September 12, 2018
Council presses mayor’s staff on fair housing
August 9, 2018
Erie County strengthens Fair Housing Law to protect against discrimination
Erie County Celebrates 50th Anniversary Of Fair Housing Act
August 1, 2018
Council considers action on fair housing law
July 11, 2018
Investigative Post: Buffalo Not Enforcing Its Fair Housing Law
July 5, 2018
Buffalo not enforcing its fair housing law
April 26, 2018
Proposed Housing Law Would Ban Discrimination Based on Income Subsidies and Citizenship Status
January 31, 2018
Ryan to host Panel Discussion on Affordable Housing in Buffalo
2017
April 21, 2017
The Hamburg Sun
Executive Director M. DeAnna Eason is quoted on affordable housing efforts in the city of Buffalo.
GROUPS TO HOST WORKSHOP ON "SECURING STABLE HOUSING"
March 11, 2017
The Criterion
Local Buffalo organizations, including HOME, will come together to speak about housing barriers that mental health consumers face.
DEANNA EASON CHOSEN TO LEAD HOME
March 1, 2017
The Challenger
New leadership transition at HOME as well as announcement of HOME's 54th Annual Dinner.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES MADE EQUAL HAS UNANIMOUSLY SELECTED M. DEANNA EASON TO LEAD THE 53 YEAR-OLD ORGANIZATION
February 11, 2017
New executive director to spread word about HOME
February 5, 2017
The Buffalo News
M. DEANNA EASON HAS BEEN TAPPED UNANIMOUSLY BY THE BOARD OF HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES MADE EQUAL (HOME) TO SERVE AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2017
February 4, 2017
The Buffalo Criterion
EASON CHOSEN TO LEAD HOME
January 25, 2017
Bee Group Newspaper
There is a new leadership transition at Western New York's premier fair housing agency. M. DeAnna Eason will assume the Executive Director position as Scott Gehl retires.
January 9, 2017
Buffalo Law Journal
New executive director to spread word about home
M. DeAnna Eason doesn’t see the direction of Housing Opportunities Made Equal changing much, even as she assumes leadership of the fair housing and civil rights organization.
2016
December 15, 2016
Buffalo Business First
fair housing agency names new leader
This article discusses the transition of power that occurred as a result of Scott Gehl's retirement and DeAnna Eason's promotion.
October 20, 2016
The Buffalo News
City Hallways (Oct. 20) Concern that all can't afford a $2,000-a-month apartment
An opinion piece discussing how the booming housing market in Buffalo is becoming out of reach for low-income residents. Inclusionary Zoning would give low to moderate income families a chance to afford housing by having a percentage of units in new developments designated for them.
September 6, 2016
The Buffalo News
In wake of rubber duck jam, Council embraces study to improve downtown traffic flow
After a visit by the world's largest rubber duck, Buffalo Common Council discusses what can done to improve traffic flow and examines how "inclusionary zoning" could help lower-income families.
August 19, 2016
Rochester Business Journal
Council considers new law: some landlords upset by income rule
The city of Rochester is considering source-of-income protection for residents receiving Section 8 assistance, but some landlords are against the proposal. HOME discusses the similar resistance in Buffalo until the legislation was passed in 2006.
August 10, 2016
The Buffalo News
RESPONSE TO NORTH TONAWANDA ARSON SENDS MESSAGE AGAINST RACISM
This article discusses a community's response to the arson of a black firefighter's home in North Tonawanda.
July 8, 2016
Buffalo Business First
HOME seeks new leader to advance fair housing efforts
This article discusses the planned departure of HOME's Executive Director, Scott Gehl, at the end of 2016.
June 22, 2016
The Hamburg Sun
HAMBURG STRENGTHENS FAIR HOUSING LAW
The Town of Hamburg cemented its reputation as the leader in fair housing in WNY when, on May 23, the Town Board by unanimous vote adopted a series of amendments to its fair housing law.
The Buffalo News
Hamburg’s housing law Amended to discourage gentrification
Town of Hamburg's Director of Community Development, Christopher Hull, is a proponent of fair housing in Hamburg. An amendment to an existing fair housing law will make it easier for low-income families to move into Hamburg. HOME's Executive Director Scott Gehl also discusses how Hamburg is a pioneer in fair housing in Erie County.
June 16, 2016
The Buffalo News
Town of Boston NeeDs to Back away from its opposition to a new group home
Opinion piece on Town of Boston's refusal to issue a building permit to CSDD to build a group home for adults with developmental disabilities.
June 15, 2016
The Buffalo News
Common Council members question Willoughby Exchange building
HOME was present at the common council meeting discussing the impact that the proposed Willoughby Exchange building will have on the Main- Ferry neighborhood.
June 13, 2016
The Buffalo News
Fair Housing Group Sues Town of Boston
Scott Gehl thought the group homes war was over.
Even now, years later, he remembers the late 1970s and early 1980s as the time when neighborhood and municipal opposition to group homes grew into a major front-burner issue.
Decades later, Gehl’s group, Housing Opportunities Made Equal, is back in court, this time challenging the Town of Boston’s rejection of a home for four developmentally disabled adults...
June 6, 2016
Buffalo Law Journal
Taking on Housing Discrimination
"'HOME has to be here to educate, advocate and litigate on behalf of victims and really to push the civil rights envelope toward social justice,' Scott Gehl said.
Those who work there and other supporters take pride in the concept of equal opportunity and fair housing. He said where a person lives can help determine his or her access to life opportunities such as education, employment, culture, recreation, medical care and municipal services.
'Without that, people don’t begin to have an equal opportunity in life,' he said. 'That’s what HOME is all about.'"
May 28, 2016
The Criterion
Town of Boston Named in Discrimination Suit
HOME and Community Services for the Developmentally Disabled have filed a federal discrimination suit against the town of Boston for refusing to issue a permit to build a group home for four adults with developmental disabilities.
May 4, 2016
The Buffalo News
PUSH Buffalo & HOME want new projects to include units for low income renters
In new apartment buildings with 12 or more units, nearly one out of every three units should be reserved for those who earn less than the median household income, they said. The groups want the city to require the set asides through a zoning and planning code now under review by city officials.
March 01, 2016
Schneiderman announces funding to fight childhood lead poisoning in Buffalo
Nearly $350,000 in settlement funds will be used to identify at-risk children, promote lead testing, and fix lead paint hazards in homes. This article discusses the funding that will go toward fighting childhood lead poisoning in Buffalo. HOME board member Leslie Vishwanath of the Matt Urban Center also mentioned.
February 22, 2016
Another Voice: Time to reframe criminal background checks in housing
HOME's education specialist Katherine Sponaugle writes an opinion piece on criminal background checks used to screen prospective tenants.
February 17, 2016
Governor Cuomo Announces Initiative to Strengthen State's Anti-Discrimination Efforts
HOME is among three fair housing agencies in New York that will work to enforce fair housing practices as part of Governor Cuomo's anti-discrimination initiative.
2015
December 21, 2015
Army vet claims landlord forced him to vacate in dispute over “service dog”
This Buffalo News' article featuring HOME's Scott W. Gehl and Daniel J. Corbitt discusses the discrimination a local veteran faced when he received a service dog to help him cope with PTSD.
November 10, 2015
COUNCIL OKS LAW BARRING DISCRIMINATION AGAINST OWNERS OF THERAPY DOGS
Refusing housing to someone that has a therapy dog or cat is now illegal in Buffalo.
2014
April 11, 2014
Jamestown official to receive HOME human rights award
Mentions that HOME will honor Greg Rabb with Sarah G. Metzger Human Rights Award at 51st annual celebration.
August 1, 2014
Niagara Frontier Publications
First Niagara provides granTs for Housing Opportunities Made Equal
Discusses the $10,000 grant from First Niagara to HOME to fund counseling and security deposit assistance for clients.
September 2, 2014
Buffalo Business First
NY AG, Evans Bancorp square off on mortgage lending
Article discusses AG’s recently announced lawsuit against Evans Bancorp for essentially redlining the eastside of Buffalo. HOME’s executive director Scott Gehl is quoted.
August 14, 2014
LANDLORD FINED FOR DISCRIMINATION SAYS HE WASN’T AWARE OF CITY’S FAIR HOUSING ORDINANCE
Discusses response from Francis Pleto regarding the settlement with the AG’s office over discrimination against Section 8 recipients, includes further responses from HOME executive director Scott Gehl.
June 22, 2014
Buffalo News
Absentee landlord faces $28,000 fine in bias case
Discusses recent determination to uphold damages and penalties in decision regarding familial status discrimination (Gordon v. Cook).
March 13, 2014
Hamburg Town Board approves rezoning of land on South Park and Bayview
Article mentions Hamburg Town Supervisor getting authorization to sign a contract between HOME and the town of Hamburg to provide comprehensive fair housing services to the town until 2019.
February 6, 2014
Hamburg Sun News
Supervisor Steven Walters addresses Hamburg during the 13th annual State of the Town address
HOME was recognized for services provided to the Town of Hamburg.
2013
October 21, 2013
Buffalo News
Buffalo rental firm held liable in housing discrimination case
Article describes HOME’s involvement in bringing forth the first source of income discrimination case under Buffalo’s FH law.
October 18, 2013
WNY Media
State Supreme Court Finds Discrimination in First Case Under Buffalo Fair Housing Law
Article describes HOME’s involvement in bringing forth the first case involving source of income under Buffalo’s 2006 Fair Housing Ordinance.
May 22, 2013
The Buffalo News
In Focus: Scott Gehl and Housing Opportunities Made Equal
Video and article discussing HOME’s work and future challenges.
May 3, 2013
The Buffalo News
Happy birthday, HOME
Discusses HOME’s 50th anniversary gala, origins and landmark achievements, along with the persistence of housing segregation throughout the nation today.
April 18, 2013
Artvoice
What Happens Here
Jack Foran discusses three new documentaries in Squeaky Wheel’s Channels: Stories from the Niagara Frontier series, including This Doesn’t Happen Here, created in conjunction with the Erie County Fair Housing Partnership about the history of housing segregation in the area featuring HOME.
March 30, 2015
The Buffalo Criterion
HOME—At the Forefront of Fair Housing
Scott Gehl writes a brief history of HOME’s origins, early members and accomplishments.
March 26, 2013
UB Generation Magazine
Special Issue: “Continuing the Divide”
Discusses housing segregation and discrimination in Buffalo, quotes Scott Gehl and includes information about HOME’s case against the Town of Orchard Park re: People Inc. housing development.
2012
September 2012
Long-time HOME supporter Mamie Crawford celebrates 100th Birthday!
Former Buffalo resident and HOME supporter Mamie Crawford celebrates her 100th birthday.
HOME, Inc. Successfully Closes Capital Campaign
Thanks to a generous closing gift from the John R. Oishei Foundation, HOME closes their "Creating Stronger, Diverse Communities."
July 11, 2012
Memories of past, hopes for future join at restored building's dedication
The article covers HOME's restoration of a fire damaged building at Main & Ferry and dedication of Oxford Commons, an affordable housing development.
July 10, 2012
HOME Celebrating Main/Ferry Project Completion Today
This article tells of the culmination of a six-year effort to save a vacant and fire-damaged building and turn it into affordable housing.
July 10, 2012
Reuse Project Transforms Vacant Building into Affordable Housing
WBFO/WNED reporter Eileen Buckley produced a story on HOME and the dedication of Oxford Commons.
April 26, 2012
Fair Housing Month focuses on bias, rights
The article gives an overview of all the Fair Housing Month activities going on in the Buffalo area, including a class on Housing Discrimination and Tenants Rights and Responsibilities.
April 9, 2012
Honoring a Cradle Beach Icon
This article talks about the legacy of Mr. Jack C. Anthony who, among other accomplishments and involvements, was one of the founding members of HOME.
March 24, 2012
HOME readies celebration for 49th anniversary
The Buffalo News talks about the upcoming annual meeting and dinner, and gives ticket information.
2011
December 30, 2011
Promoting commitment to human rights
The Western New York Metro News published a brief article about the 2012 Joanne Champion Granger Scholarship.
December 10, 2011
RESidents volunteer their time to better the community
The Western New York Metro News published an article about the Property Maintenance Task Force group in North Tonawanda. The article additionally spoke about how the PMTF group is currently working with HOME to set up a landlord training for N. Tonawanda landlords spring of 2012.
December 3, 2011
HOME's Main-Ferry project nears completion
The Buffalo News HomeFinder reported on the Main-Ferry project, and the Oxford Commons apartments.
November 14, 2011
Updated Rendering for Main-Ferry Project
Buffalo Rising published a short article about the Home for HOME project at Main and Ferry that included an updated rendering, as well as some funding information.
November 4, 2011
Landlords at training event trade tenant horror stories
The Buffalo news reported on the Cheektowaga landlord training event that HOME was a part of. The training was in response to Cheektowaga landlords frustration over a new proposed licensing law.
November 2, 2011
Construction Watch: 1542 Main Street
Buffalo Rising published an update on HOME's Main-Ferry project. The article included updated pictures as well as an updated rendering.
October 23, 2011
So you want to be a landlord
The Buffalo News takes a look at what it takes to be a landlord. Local landlords, and Scott Gehl shared tips, advice and thoughts about the business in Western New York.
September 19, 2011
Community Foundation Makes Grant to Support HOME's Community Housing Center
The Greater Buffalo Community Housing Center, otherwise known as the CHC, has found new funding from the Community Foundation for greater Buffalo, HSBC Bank and the Josephine Goodyear Foundation.
July 23, 2011
Construction Watch: Main/Ferry HOME Project
The article is about the continued progress in the 'Home for HOME' project at Main and Ferry.
May 14, 2011
HOME selects leadership, presents awards at Annual Dinner meeting
At HOME's annual dinner meeting, awards were presented to local individuals who have shown commitments to fair housing and civil rights, and new board members were elected.
May 8, 2011
Honor Roll-Recognizing the Accomplishments of Western New Yorkers
HOME celebrates 48th Annual Celebration, honors award winners and welcomes new board members.
May 5, 2011
Leadership Buffalo Values Awards Program
Scott and Danis Gehl were recognized as 2011 Leadership Buffalo Values award winners.
January 1, 2011
Hanna elected president of Western New York group
This article lists the new officers of the Minority Bar Association for 2011, including Jennifer J. Metzger of HOME as Vice President.
2010
October 14, 2010
Suit claims state agency is blocking upgrade
This article reports that Chason Affinity Development is suing the state Division of Human Rights, claiming that the Division is standing in the way of redeveloping an apartment complex in the Kensington-Eggert area of Cheektowaga. The article notes that Chason Affinity has not built a 126-unit affordable housing section of Collegiate Village as promised in its 2008 agreement with the State, which followed a federal complaint by Housing Opportunities Made Equal which asserted the owners had discriminated based on race and family status.
August 23, 2010
The Buffalo News
Urban Renewal Agency OKs $395,000 grant to HOME
This article reports on the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency's approval of a $395,00 grant for the "Home for HOME" project. Construction is projected to begin in the end of August.
August 14-20, 2010
Orchard Park Charged with Discrimination
Buffalo Rising
This article reports on the filing of two parallel federal complaints by HOME and People, Inc. against the Town of Orchard Park for alleged racial discrimination. The article describes the processes People, Inc. has gone through in an effort to build a 43 unit affordable housing complex for seniors in Orchard Park.
August 13, 2010
Buffalo Rising
HOME for HOME Project Advances
This online article reports that the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency approved a $395,000 grant to HOME for its project on Main and Ferry streets. Prior to the vote, Mayor Byron W. Brown praised the work of the civil rights organization and the impact this project will have on a highly visible intersection and the surrounding community.
August 11, 2010
Buffalo's Business First
HOME eyes new Buffalo HQ
This article reports on the Main-Ferry Project. HOME is working with the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency to renovate the long vacant buildings into HOME's new offices and ten units of affordable housing.
June 22, 2010
The Buffalo News
Orchard Park housing bias cited
This article reports that People, Inc. and HOME have filed federal complaints charging the Town of Orchard Park with housing discrimination for their refusal to rezone property necessary to build affordable senior citizen housing.
May 29, 2010
The Buffalo News
Two separate lives together
This feature story highlights HOME staffer Margaret Brown and her 17-year marriage to husband Marcus Brown, President of the Juneteenth Festival.
May 27, 2010
Renting 101
Blogger Megan Mollman summarizes a recent Buffalo bias case and reminds landlords of their obligation to describe properties in accordance with fair housing laws. She also summarizes various HOME responses to such violations.
The Buffalo News
Real estate agent faces bias charge
This article reports that "Federal authorities charged Amherst real estate agent Judith Serio and Re/Max North with discrimination against families with children, accusing her of refusing to rent an apartment to one family and refusing to even show another apartment to a different family," in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
May 25, 2010
The Buffalo News
Rental bias costs landlord $1,000
This article details a South Buffalo landlord's agreement to a $1,000 settlement as a result of a craigslist posting describing an apartment in a "nice Irish neighborhood." Testing by HOME revealed evidence of racial discrimination.
April 17, 2010
The Buffalo News Home Finder
Buffalo Extra: HOME meeting
This article announces HOME's Annual Meeting and Dinner on Thursday, April 29 starting at 5pm. Canisius College's President-Elect John J. Hurley is the keynote speaker and WIVB's News Anchor Victoria Hong is the MC.
April 13, 2010
The Buffalo News
Frontier student to get $1,000 HOME scholarship
This article announces David Heaton as the 2010 Joanne Champion Granger Scholarship winner, which will be presented at HOME's Annual Meeting and Dinner on April 29.
April 8, 2010
The Buffalo News
Battle spreads over apartments for seniors
This front page article reports on the affordable senior housing complex proposed for the Houghton College site in West Seneca and the local resistance to the project. Although developer Brian Young will also build other market-rate units on the site, only the 47 units of affordable housing have generated controversy. The article refers to People, Inc.'s trouble with obtaining a permit to build a similar complex in Orchard Park and HOME's investigation of the matter.
April 5, 2010
The Buffalo News
Series of events focuses on fair housing law
This article reports on the various activities planned for Fair Housing Month, including HOME's Annual Meeting and Dinner on April 29.
February 14, 2010
The Buffalo News
Landlord training course scheduled for Tuesday
This article reports on the upcoming free landlord training course offered by HOME. The article mentions HOME's partners: Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, Erie County Department of Health, and Roswell Park Cancer Institute's Erie-Niagara Tobacco-Free Coalition.
January 29, 2010
The Spectrum
LOCAL HOUSING ORGANIZATION FINDS NEW HOME
This article reports on the "Home for HOME Project" and the recent grant from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo for $25,000. The article covers both the "Home for HOME Project" and the new free landlord training courses to be offered by HOME through a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation as well.