California Governor Gavin Newsom today announced nearly $38.2 million in funding to expand housing and homelessness solutions for California Native American communities. This investment supports culturally responsive interventions, permanent housing, and youth programs tailored to tribal needs.
Governor Newsom stated, “California is strengthening its partnership with tribal governments through programs and initiatives rooted in dignity, self-determination, and stability. This government-to-government approach is designed to respect tribal sovereignty while addressing historic inequities and supporting efforts to reduce homelessness.”
Sixty-eight federally recognized tribes received $28.5 million through Round 4 of the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Tribal Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program (Tribal HHAP). Chairwoman Angela Elliott-Santos of the Manzanita Band of the Kumeyaay Nation said, "Through this funding, the Tribe will be able to provide safe, culturally supportive interim shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness."
Tribal governments have historically faced barriers to accessing state funding. Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Tomiquia Moss noted, “Tribal HHAP and Tribal Homekey+ strengthen tribal communities by removing long‑standing barriers and honoring their sovereign, community‑driven approaches to housing.” Since 2019, HCD programs have awarded nearly $330.3 million to tribal governments.
Tribal HHAP has served over 3,325 people, with nearly $15 million creating or renovating 319 permanent housing units. Over $34 million has also supported youth homelessness interventions, serving more than 758 youth. HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez said, “Through programs built around tribal sovereignty, we have the flexibility to fund housing and homelessness solutions through which tribes can best address the unique needs of their members.”
Additionally, the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians of the Stewarts Point Rancheria received nearly $9.7 million for the Kashia Windsor Housing Project under the new Tribal Homekey+ Program, funded by voter-approved Proposition 1. This project will provide 22 affordable rental homes.
These awards are part of Governor Newsom’s broader strategies to address the housing and homelessness crisis. Last year, California reported a 9.5% decrease in unsheltered homelessness, reversing a decades-long trend.