The Comanche Nation Housing Authority (CNHA) has been selected as one of eight organizations to receive grant funding from FHLBank Topeka’s Native American Housing Initiatives (NAHI) Grants Program. The funds, totaling $500,000, will be allocated to extend CNHA’s efforts in supporting Comanche Nation Elders through its outreach and rehabilitation initiatives.
Within the NAHI 2023 program, FHLBank Topeka has awarded $3 million in grant funding to Native American tribes and tribally designated housing entities.
“Through our continued efforts, we aim to provide stable and secure housing for our elders,” said Russell Sossaman, executive director of CNHA. “By prioritizing our elders and ensuring they have access to functionable housing not only enhances their livability but strengthens and unifies our community.”
The grant will expand the impact of its Elder Rehabilitation Program, a social welfare initiative aimed at improving the housing needs, living conditions and general well-being of Comanche Nation Elders. The Elder Rehabilitation Program has been providing services to Elders for more than 15 years.
The NAHI funding will allow CNHA to continue improving tribal elders’ living environments through handicap accessibility services that pertain to wider doorways, wheelchair ramps, accessible showers, bathroom railing, handicap toilets and easy use plumbing fixtures.
It also includes upgrades and replacements to assist with meeting safe and livable standards, including storm shelters, windows, roofs, siding, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, interior and exterior doors, flooring, appliances and electrical and plumbing fixtures.
“Native American communities are an important part of our district. We are always looking for ways to make sure we are serving the needs of all community members,” said Mark Yardley, president and CEO of FHLBank. “We are pleased to partner with our members to bring these grants to tribes and tribally designated housing entities in the Tenth District.”
Eligibility for services is determined upon tribal enrollment status and age, being the homeowner residing in the home and being located inside of the Comanche Nation’s seven-county service areas.
For more information about FHLBank Topeka, visit www.fhlbtopeka.com.
