'Having a roof over your head is just as important as access to life-saving drugs for people living with HIV and AIDS,' said HRC's Joe Solmonese.

WASHINGTON - Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese made the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment increasing funding for the Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS program, or HOPWA. HOPWA is the only federal housing program that provides comprehensive, community-based housing for people with HIV and AIDS.

"Having a roof over your head is just as important as access to life-saving drugs for people living with HIV and AIDS. We're pleased that the House, led by Representatives Nadler, Shays and Crowley, restored funding the 2003 levels, but more needs to be done. As the Senate takes up funding for HOPWA and other federal HIV/AIDS programs, it's crucial they meet the needs of men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS. Congress should give comprehensive, community-based housing programs the funds they need to serve Americans living with HIV and AIDS."

The Human Rights Campaign is the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender political organization with members throughout the country. It effectively lobbies Congress, provides campaign support and educates the public to ensure that LGBT Americans can be open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community.