California awards nearly $30 million in housing funds to tribes
The state Department of Housing and Community Development announced Wednesday it will award nearly $30 million to indigenous communities across the state to reduce homelessness and build housing.
Some 68 communities will receive $28.5 million via the state Tribal Homeless, Housing Assistance and Prevention program to “implement unique, culturally responsive interventions” among Native residents experiencing homelessness and housing instability.
A list of which federally recognized tribes will receive the funds was not immediately available Wednesday morning.
Acting Chairwoman Angela Elliott Santos of the Manzanita Band of the Kumeyaay Nation said the funds would allow her tribe to provide “safe” and “culturally supportive” interim shelter for homeless people.
“We are grateful to the California Department of Housing and Community Development for investing in Tribal-led solutions that advance Tribal sovereignty and empower Tribes to meet the unique needs of their communities,” she said.
“Tribal communities know their people, their histories, and their challenges best,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “This government-to-government approach is designed to respect tribal sovereignty while addressing historic inequities and supporting efforts to reduce homelessness and help more Californians move off the streets and into safe, stable housing.”
The Kashia Band of Pomo Indians of the Stewarts Point Rancheria will receive another $9.7 million to finance an affordable housing project in Windsor.
That money will come from Proposition 1, a bond voters passed in 2024 to finance mental health and housing solutions.
