MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., April 11, 2025 — Livingston County has proclaimed April as Fair Housing Month, recognizing the importance of equal housing opportunities for all residents and promoting the continued efforts to eliminate discriminatory practices in housing.
Fair Housing Month also commemorates the 57th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act and Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act, signed into law on this date in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The act prohibits discrimination by landlords, real estate companies, banks, lending institutions, homeowner’s insurance companies and others based on race, creed or color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status or disability. It also protects individuals from discrimination when they are buying or renting a home, obtaining a mortgage, seeking housing assistance or engaging in other home-related activities.
The County’s Department of Social Services (DSS) strongly advocates for fair housing practices through services like the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which enables the lowest income households in New York State to rent quality, safe housing in the private housing market by providing rental assistance. They also promote online resources to counter discriminatory housing practices, like fair housing complaint assistance and step-by-step guides for those who believe their housing rights have been violated.
“We’re committed to ensuring that all residents have the right to fair housing, to live where they choose, and to own a home without fear of discrimination,” said DSS Commissioner Tracy McCaughey. “We continue to work to ensure everyone in our community understands their rights and has access to the same housing opportunities, no matter their background.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to housing equity, Livingston County operates a dedicated Housing Task Force. The collaborative group brings together community partners, service providers, and local leaders to address housing challenges across the County. The Task Force works to expand access to safe, affordable, quality housing for residents of all income levels, with a focus on long-term sustainability and community well-being. Learn more about the Livingston County Housing Task Force here.
Learn more about the Fair Housing Act by visiting the Department of Justice’s website. For more information on the fair housing resources and program in Livingston County, please visit the Department of Social Services’ fair housing page.
Local fair housing resources:
• HUD regional Office: 1-800-496-4294
• Livingston County Fair Housing Officer: 585-243-7300
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.