As we reflect on 2024, PCRG is proud to celebrate a year marked by impactful policy wins, advocacy milestones, and critical research. These achievements were made possible by the dedication of our members, partners, and advocates who share our commitment to building stronger, more equitable communities. Here are the top five moments that made 2024 exceptional.
NAP Tax Credit Expansion: A Win for Community Investment
Through collaboration with statewide organizations, PCRG members, banking partners, and state legislators, we successfully expanded the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) tax credit. This advocacy effort doubled the program’s funding from $36 million to $72 million and raised the corporate investment cap to $2.5 million, significantly increasing resources to support transformative community development projects across Pennsylvania.
Leading the Charge at NCRC Hill Advocacy Day
PCRG led Pennsylvania representatives during the National Community Reinvestment Coalition’s (NCRC’s) Hill Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. Our delegation met with Congressional staff to emphasize and advocate for critical issues, including strengthening the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), expanding the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), supporting the Land Banking Act, and advancing the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act. These discussions underscored the importance of federal policies that promote equitable growth and housing opportunities.
Fighting Junk Fees
PCRG joined Congresswoman Summer Lee and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Director Rohit Chopra to address efforts to eliminate junk fees — hidden or unexpected charges that consumers often encounter when paying for goods or services. These fees, such as excessive bank overdraft charges, surprise hotel fees, and inflated ticket processing costs, disproportionately impact low- and moderate-income families, eroding their financial stability. This pivotal conversation highlighted PCRG’s commitment to financial protections and transparency, ensuring community members can thrive without unfair financial barriers.
Critical Research on Black Homeownership
Our annual lending study continued to illuminate disparities in Black homeownership within the Pittsburgh region. By providing data-driven insights, our research has become a cornerstone for shaping local strategies and informing policy makers on the urgent need to close the racial homeownership gap.
Proclaiming May as “Affordable Housing Month” in Pittsburgh
PCRG joined affordable housing advocates at Pittsburgh’s City Council to celebrate the designation of May as “Affordable Housing Month.” This proclamation honored the collective efforts to advance policies promoting affordable, quality housing and homeownership. As part of this initiative, PCRG also aimed to elevate and uplift the outstanding work of partners like ACTION-Housing, Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Housing Justice Table, and many others leading housing solutions and strengthening our communities.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we close 2024, we are inspired by the progress we’ve achieved and embrace the challenges that lie ahead. PCRG remains steadfast in its mission to create vibrant, inclusive communities through meaningful advocacy, collaboration, and action — and by providing substantive research to bolster the causes we’re dedicated to. Thank you to our members and partners for joining us on this journey. Together, we can continue building a future that ensures equity, affordability, and opportunity for all.