On Monday, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) unveiled a significant funding initiative, designating $72.6 million through the Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) program.
This grant will allocate up to $2 million to each of the 38 chosen communities, aiming to bolster projects focused on housing development, expansion, and preservation.
Community Infrastructure Improvements
The financial support is set to improve essential community infrastructure.
It will cover a range of initiatives, including the construction and renovation of critical buildings, rehabilitation of existing housing, land acquisition, and broader economic development strategies that specifically target American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
Empowering Tribal Nations
Adrianne Todman, the acting HUD secretary, pointed out the agency’s dedication to strengthening development in Indian country.
She expressed that this funding serves to empower Tribal Nations, enabling them to tackle community challenges while advancing substantial infrastructure improvements.
HUD also acknowledged the crucial feedback from Native American tribes, which played a vital role in shaping the funding strategy and enhancing communication about the program.
The agency thanked tribes for their valuable insights during consultations, which helped refine the grant competition and improve the application process.
Funding Allocation by State
Richard Monocchio, the principal deputy assistant secretary for public and Indian housing at HUD, recognized the proactive stance taken by Native American tribes in their efforts to develop community infrastructure.
He noted that HUD remains committed to supporting innovative solutions to the pressing housing and development issues arising in Indian Country.
The states poised to gain the most from this funding include California, Oklahoma, and Alaska.
In California, ten communities will collectively receive $18 million, while Oklahoma’s seven Native communities are set to receive nearly $13.4 million.
Additionally, seven communities in Alaska will benefit from nearly $12.3 million in funding.
Earlier this year, HUD also initiated programs to further assist Native American communities through housing counseling services.
These programs introduced a new category specifically for HUD-certified tribal housing counselors, as well as a certification exam designed to address the particular challenges of fair housing laws pertaining to tribes and the unique context of trust land.
Source: Housingwire