In commemoration of Father’s Day 2017,the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is joining with communities throughout the country to celebrate fatherhood and family through HUD’s National Father’s Day Initiative. Watch HUD Secretary Carson’s video message.

Throughout the month of June, hundreds of Public Housing Authorities and apartment developments are hosting events that support fathers living in HUD-assisted housing by connecting them with resources that expand economic opportunity and engagement with their children.

“Fathers provide our children with the love, support, and guidance they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives,” said HUD Secretary Ben Carson. “We’re proud to work with our local partners to help families across the nation to forge stronger bonds and brighter futures.”

This year, HUD will raise awareness about the vital role fathers play in promoting children’s physical and emotional wellbeing through the theme of “Building Healthy Families.” Participating communities are encouraged to organize events which advance a wide range of issues relating to family health, including physical fitness, balanced nutrition, and mental health services. They are also encouraged to coordinate with federal agencies, including the Departments of Labor, Justice, and Health and Human Services, local health departments, and groups such as the Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA.

This is the seventh year of HUD’s National Father’s Day Initiative, which strives to connect fathers with their children and increase employment opportunities for fathers in HUD-assisted housing. This year, PHAs and Multifamily owners willhost more than 500 events around the country.

To find out more information about HUD’s National Father’s Day Initiative, or to sign-up your community and take part, please visit www.hud.gov/fathersday.