Tulsa celebrates National Community Development Week

From housing help to homelessness services, the City of Tulsa is recognizing the impact of federal programs that support thousands of residents each year.

As part of National Community Development Week, observed April 21 to April 25, the city is spotlighting how funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) directly improves lives through local partnerships.

A Look at Tulsa’s Federal Funding Sources

Several HUD-backed programs form the backbone of Tulsa’s efforts to build stronger, healthier neighborhoods:

1. Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): These grants help cities develop viable communities by providing decent housing, safe living environments, and expanded economic opportunities, particularly for low- and moderate-income residents.
2. HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME): This initiative provides formula grants to municipalities, often used in collaboration with nonprofit groups to build, buy, or rehabilitate affordable housing for rent or homeownership.
3. Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG): ESG supports people experiencing homelessness by funding shelter operations, offering essential services to residents, and providing rapid re-housing resources.
4. Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA): HOPWA offers housing assistance and related services to low-income individuals living with HIV/AIDS, including care coordination, healthcare referrals, and transportation access.

Measurable Impact in the Past Two Years

Over the last two years, funding from just two of these programs—CDBG and HOME—helped 16,185 Tulsans. The money supported:

1. Nonprofit community initiatives
2. Public facility improvements
3. Housing rehabilitation
4. Property demolitions
5. First-time homebuyer assistance

City officials say these outcomes reflect the power of consistent federal support combined with strong local partnerships.

What’s Ahead in 2025

Looking to the future, Tulsa has recommended more than $6 million in federal funds for 29 new projects across 23 external agencies and two city departments. These efforts will continue to expand affordable housing options, improve neighborhood infrastructure, and address homelessness.

Why It Matters

City leaders say these programs are vital for maintaining a high quality of life for vulnerable residents. By working with nonprofit organizations and community groups, Tulsa is leveraging federal funding to ensure every resident has access to safe housing and essential services.

Residents can learn more about the city’s community development efforts during the weeklong observance, which highlights both achievements and future goals.