Senator Kim Travels to North Jersey to Talk AI, Housing, and Celebrate New Jersey’s Diversity as World Cup Begins

This visit comes as Senator Kim leads the fight for housing equality with legislation in the 21 st Century ROAD to Housing Act JERSEY CITY, NJ – This weekend, Senator Kim traveled throughout North Jersey where he discussed the importance of companies investing in New Jersey’s future as part of his Einstein Corridor initiative, celebrated New Jersey’s diversity and culture as World Cup matches begin at New Jersey-New York Stadium in East Rutherford, and brought his affordable housing fight to partners on-the-ground who play a critical role in providing housing assistance for New Jersey’s most vulnerable citizens. “Traveling across North Jersey this weekend highlighted why New Jersey is the perfect host for this year’s World Cup; our diversity and hospitality are simply unmatched, and our communities are filled with those dedicated to creating a better future and enacting positive change for all,” said Senator Andy Kim. “I am inspired by all who took time to discuss how we can create a better future for New Jersey that benefits everyone.” As part of his Einstein Corridor initiative , Senator Kim visited CoreWeave HQ in Livingston, where he met with leadership to discuss the company’s work in the AI space and their long-standing commitment to invest in New Jersey communities and its workforce. “CoreWeave was founded in New Jersey, is headquartered here, and proud to be investing in the state’s future,” said Brian Venturo, CoreWeave Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer. “AI is an important driver of economic growth and innovation in the world, and we appreciated the opportunity to discuss how New Jersey can strengthen its leadership position, support local businesses and entrepreneurs, and ensure its residents benefit from the opportunities this technology will create.” Senator Kim then joined the Reaching Adolescents In Need (RAIN) Foundation, a non-profit organization in East Orange that provides emergency shelter and other services to LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness. During the visit, Senator Kim heard from staff and residents who rely on this program for housing and learned how these programs promote self-sufficiency and independence while providing a safe space for at-risk young adults. “Since 2013, we have worked to provide safe shelter, supportive services, mental health resources, workforce development, and housing assistance to young adults, including many LGBTQ+ youth who often face unique barriers to safety and stability. Today’s visit gave us an opportunity to share the realities our youth face and the critical need for continued investment in programs we provide,” said Elaine Helms, Executive Director, RAIN Foundation. “Meaningful change happens through strong partnerships between community organizations and government leaders. We appreciate Senator Kim taking the time to listen, learn, and engage directly with the people and programs working every day to support New Jersey’s most vulnerable young adults.” Working to improve housing equality for all New Jerseyans, Senator Kim ended his Friday in Newark, meeting with staff and leadership of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY), and their partner institutions who help FHLBNY offer housing assistance to Newark’s most vulnerable residents. Throughout the visit, they discussed the work Senator Kim has done as part of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act and how this legislation will support the current work being done on-the-ground by organizations like FHLBNY who offer affordable housing and down-payment assistance through local banks in the region. Senator Kim also toured the Fairmount Crossing building which is one of FHLBNY’s affordable housing initiatives and spoke with housing partners who are on-the-ground daily working to bring housing equality to Newark and the surrounding area. “FHLBNY knows that a safe, stable and affordable home is the foundation from which all of us grow as individuals, families and communities- Fairmount Crossing will provide this foundation,” said Randolph C. Snook, President and CEO of the FHLBNY. “Creating affordable housing is the work of many hands, from committed organizations and dedicated developers to local lenders and elected officials at all levels. Fairmount Crossing reflects the power of partnership and the FHLBNY is grateful for the opportunity to be part of this effort.” As a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Senator Kim fought hard to ensure the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, the most significant piece of housing legislation to pass in 25 years, included legislation he wrote to streamline permitting reforms, allow municipalities to use community development block grants (CDBG) funding to build more housing, and increase the cap on how much banks can invest in housing and community development unlocking billions of dollars in new affordable housing investments. As New Jersey welcomes the world to the NJNY Stadium for the World Cup, Senator Kim visited Union City’s Soccer Fest where he spoke with hundreds of visitors excited for the upcoming Brazil vs Morocco game and celebrated the communities that contribute to New Jersey’s historically diverse culture. ###