Federal funding to boost tribal housing and infrastructure in Oregon

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Oregon U.S. Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is awarding nearly $10 million in federal funding to build affordable housing for Tribal members in Oregon.

The combined $9,917,680 grant package will support new residential construction projects for the Warm Springs Housing Authority and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians.

The federal grants originate from HUD's Indian Housing Block Grant Competitive Program. The initiative supplies funds to eligible Tribes and Tribally Designated Entities to expand housing access, prioritizing new home construction and housing rehabilitation projects in Tribal communities.

The Warm Springs Housing Authority will receive $5 million to build seven new three-bedroom homes for low-income families. Edward R. Henderson serves as secretary-treasurer and CEO of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, working alongside Housing Director Danielle Wood to secure the grant. “We are grateful for HUD's significant investment in our Nation that will help us provide new affordable housing for Warm Springs families who need safe, stable homes,” Henderson said. “We appreciate Housing Wood's effort to secure this award for our community.”

The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians was awarded $4,917,680 to construct seven single-family homes and build out infrastructure for an additional new housing development in Douglas County. Carla Keene serves as chair of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians. “Affordable housing for our Cow Creek Umpqua Tribal citizens is such a crucial component of self-sufficiency,” Keene said. “It helps families and individuals feel a sense of security, stability, traditions and provides a place for lasting, living memories. We are thrilled to receive this generous grant and look forward to the positive contributions it will make in Douglas County.”

Oregon's U.S. senators praised the local housing authorities for securing the federal funds. “It's critical that Tribal families have affordable, safe places to live that will foster community and connect them to their land,” Sen. Merkley said. “This nearly $10 million in federal funding will help Tribes work to overcome their affordable housing shortage.” Sen. Wyden emphasized the regional necessity of housing access. “Housing is a basic human right and Tribal communities across Oregon urgently need safe, affordable places for families to live and grow,” Wyden said. “I applaud the Warm Springs Housing Authority and the Cow Creek Band for winning this federal investment that will support constructing new homes and building out essential infrastructure.”