American Rescue Plan funding helps Native Hawaiians respond to COVID-19
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia L. Fudge today announced $5 million in Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant (NHHBG) funding under the American Rescue Plan to support the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this much-needed relief funding, DHHL will be better prepared to address the housing needs of low-income Native Hawaiian families impacted by COVID-19.
“The American Rescue Plan made a historic investment toward the housing needs of low-income communities,” said Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “HUD is supporting the swift implementation of the funding allocations to get relief to communities. With this funding, DHHL will be able to respond to the unique needs of the Native Hawaiian community.”
Under the American Rescue Plan, NHHBG funding may be used to support new construction, rehabilitation, acquisition, infrastructure, and various support services. Additionally, these program funds may also be used to provide critical rental assistance to Native Hawaiians residing on or off Hawaiian Home Lands.
“With funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, HUD is working expeditiously to help the Native Hawaiian community respond to COVID-19,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary Heidi Frechette. “HUD is proud of our special partnership with DHHL. Together, we will meet this moment and provide relief to families in need as we work to end this crisis.”