Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) visited the B’nai B’rith Gerd and Inge Strauss Manor on Pantano in Tucson, Arizona, this week, where he engaged with residents and gained firsthand insight about the importance of affordable housing programs for seniors.

Ciscomani serves on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, which is responsible for appropriating funds for the Section 202 Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) housing program. Ciscomani was welcomed by building volunteers and staff, including: Bonnie Dombrowski, president of the board; Colette Altaffer, vice president of the board; Marilyn Thompson, regional property supervisor; David Mata, manager; Stephen Smith, assistant manager; and Luz Servin, service coordinator. Also present on behalf of B’nai B’rith Covenant House, another HUD senior property sponsored by B’nai B’rith in Tucson, were Vice President Abbie Stone Tenen, co-chair of the B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Committee, and Marshall Herron, secretary.

“It was great to join B’nai B’rith for a visit to Strauss Manor,” said Ciscomani. “I am grateful for the work they do to provide our seniors with safe, affordable housing as well as other programs that give their residents the ability to live their golden years comfortably.”

The congressman toured various facilities within the housing complex, including apartment units, the community room, fitness room, coffee room, computer room, library and video room. During the tour, he addressed residents’ questions regarding senior issues such as affordable housing, income security, nutrition and health care.

“B’nai B’rith was eager to host Congressman Ciscomani at one of our sponsored HUD senior housing buildings this week,” said B’nai B’rith Legislative Director of Aging Policy Evan Carmen. “Congressional visits are a great way for members of Congress to see for themselves the vital role affordable housing plays in the lives of older Americans. Visits provide a forum for residents to speak with their elected representatives about federal programs such as Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid, advocating for their continued success.”

Since 1971, B’nai B’rith has sponsored low-income senior housing through Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly. The B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network in the United States comprises 35 buildings in 27 communities and serves around 5,000 people. B’nai B’rith International is the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income housing for seniors in the country.