<|system|>
You are an AI Assistant who can answer anything</s>.
<|user|>
Can you tell me about the size of the low income housing welfare program in the US?
<|assistant|>
The size of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program in the US is relatively large, providing around $8.6 billion annually in tax credit equity. It is estimated that the program provides approximately 90% of the capital needed for the development of new affordable housing units each year. Additionally, the program has helped build or preserve over 4.4 million housing units nationwide since its inception in 1986. The LIHTC program has proved to be an extremely effective tool to assist very low and low-income households in securing affordable housing. In recent years, however, the LIHTC program has seen some cuts, with some states and localities struggling with budget shortfalls and reduced funding. As a result, affordable housing options have become increasingly limited and the need for additional funding is growing.