The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development [1] (HUD) announced [2] it has allocated $70 million in funding for tribal communities across the nation to improve housing conditions. Simultaneously, the money is also intended to help stimulate community development for low and moderate income families.
The HUD money is available through the Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) Program, which is tasked with developing viable Indian and Alaska Native communities through grants for decent housing, suitable living environments, and economics opportunities.
"Recipients can use the funding to support rehabbing or building new housing or to buy land for housing. They can use it toward infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer facilities. Recipients can also spur economic development including commercial and industrial projects," HUD said. Previously, recipients have used money to create community and health centers, energy conservation projects, or new businesses.
"Housing and infrastructure needs in Indian Country are severe and widespread, and far exceed what has been provided to tribes and their designated housing entities. This funding will go directly to the Native American and Alaska Native communities that are working hard every day to improve housing for the families who need it most," said Rodger Boyd, HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of Native American Programs.
Roughly $56 million is available for all ICDBG activities, with $10 million set aside for mold remediation and prevention. Approximately $4 million is set aside to fund Imminent Threat grants designed to alleviate or remove threats to health or safety that require immediate action.
The deadline to apply is July 29, 2014.