A taxpayer-funded housing support initiative in Portland, Oregon, is drawing significant backlash after announcing $30,000 grants exclusively for first-time homebuyers who are not U.S. citizens. The program, known as “Camino a Casa,” is managed by the Hacienda Community Development Corporation (HCDC) and aims to assist immigrants in purchasing homes.
The $30,000 grants are intended for individuals classified as non-citizens, including ITIN holders, DACA recipients, refugees, asylees, and green card holders. Promotional materials for the program emphasize that it is tailored specifically for those without U.S. citizenship, a decision that has sparked accusations of discrimination. One Oregon Republican lawmaker has publicly condemned the initiative as “state-sponsored discrimination,” igniting a heated debate about immigration and housing policy.
The program, funded by Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency, offers comprehensive support throughout the homebuying process. Participants are paired with financial coaches and HUD-certified housing counselors, receiving guidance on mortgage readiness and financial wellness, alongside opportunities for down-payment assistance.
The controversy comes amid a backdrop of heightened national discourse on immigration, particularly as the 2024 presidential election approaches. Republican candidate Donald Trump has made immigration enforcement a central theme of his campaign, and the issue has gained traction among voters.
Critics argue that prioritizing assistance for non-citizens in a housing market already strained by affordability challenges undermines support for U.S. citizens seeking similar assistance. Supporters of the program, however, assert that it addresses the unique barriers faced by immigrant communities in accessing homeownership.
