Finding Home: How HUD Native American Programs Changed Our Lives

For years, my family moved from rental to rental, never quite feeling stable. With three children and a modest income, homeownership seemed like an impossible dream on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Then I learned about the NAHASDA programs through our tribal housing authority.

Our Housing Situation

Like many families on the reservation, we faced significant housing challenges. Rentals were scarce, often in poor condition, and with three kids, we were constantly worried about the next move. I wanted my children to have the stability of a home they could grow up in.

Discovering NAHASDA

NAHASDA (Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act) provides block grants to tribes for housing activities. Our tribe, the Oglala Sioux, uses these funds for several programs:

- Low-rent housing units - Homeownership programs - Home rehabilitation - Down payment assistance

The Application Process

I visited our tribal housing authority and learned about their homeownership program. The requirements included: - Proof of tribal enrollment - Income verification - Completion of homebuyer education classes - Clean background check - Stable employment

The homebuyer education classes were actually helpful—they taught us about budgeting, mortgages, and home maintenance.

Getting Approved

After several months, we were approved for the program. The tribe helped us with: - **Down payment assistance**: A grant covering most of our down payment - **Below-market interest rate**: Through the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program - **New construction**: Our home was built specifically for our family

Moving Into Our Home

The day we got our keys was the happiest day of my life. My kids each have their own room. We have a yard. We're building equity instead of paying rent to someone else. Most importantly, we have stability.

Advice for Others

1. Contact your tribal housing authority: They're the gateway to all these programs
2. Be patient: Waitlists can be long, but stay on them
3. Complete all requirements: Homebuyer education and other requirements help you succeed
4. Explore all options: NAHASDA, Section 184 loans, and down payment assistance can work together
5. Maintain good credit: Start working on your credit now

Homeownership on the reservation is possible. The programs exist—you just need to take that first step.