Host a phone campaign!
- Dial 202-224-3121 for the congressional switchboard. You will be directed to an who can direct you to both senators as well as representatives. It is usually most effective to call your own senators and representatives, as each is primarily concerned with residents from his or her district.
- Once the operator answers, ask to be connected to whomever you are trying to reach. They will send you to your senator's or representative's office line, and a legislative assistant will answer the phone.
- Start by giving them your name and address, so that they know you are from the district. You can use the script below for guidance on what to say. It is important to tell them why you are calling.
- You will sometimes be able to speak directly to your senator or representative, but more often you will speak to a staff person in the member's office. This person keeps track of how many people called and their positions on issues, and provides a summary to the member. Be assured that your call does count, even if you are not able to speak directly to your senator or representative.
* Although you may find it easiest to always call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 to reach your senators or representative, you can also find the direct number to any member's office by consulting the Senate phone list or House phone list.
Suggested script for calling Senators:
“Hello, my name is ________________, and I live at ________________. I am calling to ask Senator ________ to vote to preserve and expand funding for HUD’s 202 program. The HUD 202 program provides affordable housing to 400,000 very low-income older adults across the country. As housing prices have increased in California, it is nearly impossible for low-income seniors to find a safe, affordable place to live. Protecting and expanding the HUD 202 program will allow HUD to continue serving the older adults currently in HUD housing, and will enable HUD to expand this critical service to more seniors in need. Thank you.”
Suggested script for calling Representatives:
“Hello, my name is ________________, and I live at ________________, in the Congressman’s/Congresswoman’s district. I am calling to ask Congressman/Congresswoman ________ to vote to preserve and expand funding for HUD’s 202 program. The HUD 202 program provides affordable housing to 400,000 very low-income older adults across the country. As housing prices have increased in California, it is nearly impossible for low-income seniors to find a safe, affordable place to live. Protecting and expanding the HUD 202 program will allow HUD to continue serving the older adults currently in HUD housing, and will enable HUD to expand this critical service to more seniors in need. Thank you.”