Salamanca Press | December 10, 2021
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that almost $2 million in aid will help the Seneca Nation of Indians as part of a $52 million program.
The aid, through the Indian Community Block Grant-American Rescue Plan, provides grants to 49 Tribal communities to prevent, prepare for and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Seneca Nation Housing Authority received $1.73 million in assistance to build eight single-family homes, which will help alleviate the housing shortage.
The announcement, made by HUD Deputy Secretary Todman during a speaking engagement at the National American Indian Housing Council’s Legal Symposium, underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to delivering equitable COVID-19 relief to Tribal communities.
“I’m pleased to announce these robust resources for Tribal communities to meet urgent housing, community, and economic development needs,” said HUD Deputy Secretary Adrianne Todman. “The funding HUD is awarding today will support our mission to ensure that every person has the security of a healthy, safe, and resilient home and community. HUD looks forward to ongoing partnerships with Tribal communities to expand equity and opportunity and strengthen nation-to-nation relationships.”
In addition, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe received $1.04 million to buy a three-acre parcel and three manufactured homes.
“These two American Rescue Plan grants to the Seneca Nation Housing Authority and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe will fund the construction and acquisition of new housing for Tribal families in New York,” said Stephen Murphy, HUD Deputy Regional Administrator for New York and New Jersey. “The new residences will alleviate housing shortages experienced by both tribes during the COVID-19 pandemic; these permanent homes will go a long way toward keeping residents safe and healthy.”
