Golden State Today

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that Native American tribes across the state will receive over $91 million to tackle housing and homelessness issues. This funding includes $71 million from the state's Tribal Homekey program and an additional $20 million through the Tribal Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program. Both programs are managed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

Governor Newsom stated, "No community is untouched by housing challenges, and across the nation, Native Americans experience higher rates of homelessness and housing insecurity. These programs — developed in partnership with tribes across the state — are designed to help address the unique challenges and needs of Native communities in terms of housing and homelessness support."

The Tribal Homekey program was established to assist California tribes in overcoming historical obstacles to securing affordable housing development funds. The awards totaling nearly $71 million will finance 172 permanent rental units in rural areas within Butte, Colusa, Del Norte, Fresno, Humboldt, Lake, Los Angeles, Mendocino, and Sonoma counties. This initiative is based on California's successful Homekey program aimed at rapidly constructing housing for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Tomiquia Moss from the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency remarked on these efforts: "Native American communities experience some of the deepest disparities of homelessness rates and unique housing challenges which require a thoughtful, coordinated approach. I want to thank the Department of Housing and Community Development for partnering with tribes to catalyze development and build safe, affordable housing."

In addition to this funding, $20 million has been allocated under the Tribal Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (Tribal HHAP) program grants. These grants will support 37 federally recognized tribes in California as they implement culturally responsive interventions against homelessness.

Gustavo Velasquez, HCD Director said: “California tribes have faced historic inequities in accessing complex housing funding programs not designed with their unique needs in mind, and HCD is firmly committed to addressing this injustice. Tribal Homekey reflects this promise. It was an honor to be able to dedicate the staff and resources to help meet the affordable housing needs of our tribal partners.”

Earlier this year legislative measures were signed by Governor Newsom to aid tribal communities in developing more housing projects. AB 1878 introduced by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia creates a Tribal Housing Advisory Committee within HCD for technical assistance while SB 1187 by Senator Mike McGuire establishes a fund dedicated to supporting tribal housing projects.