Maria Benjamin is Director of Homeownership and Below Market Rate Programs for the City and County of San Francisco’s Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development. Maria has over 25 years’ experience in affordable housing and has assisted thousands of first time homebuyers realize the dream of homeownership through Inclusionary below market rate housing and down payment assistance programs offered by local jurisdictions and community based organizations. Ms. Benjamin is a strong advocate for low income people having equitable access to affordable housing opportunities. She currently sits on the Board of Directors of several Bay Area non-profits as well as the national shared equity program network, Grounded Solutions. Maria and her husband of over 35 years are lifelong San Francisco Bay Area residents, where they have raised 3 children and are enjoying 2 grandchildren.