During the week of April 10-14, the City of Gastonia is supporting Community Development Week, a nationwide effort to educate Congressional Members and the community about the importance of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, its impact on the community, and the need for increased program funding. On March 21, the Gastonia City Council presented a proclamation to Danette Dye, Director of Gastonia’s Housing and Community Engagement Department, designating April 10-14 as CDBG Week in Gastonia.
“We thank our legislators for the grants to our City to continue provide vital programs to our communities,” said Dye. “As we continue to receive funding through the CDBG Program, we know the program works and it is making a difference in our City and for our residents.”
From 2016-2021, the City of Gastonia received more than $3.4 million in CDBG Funds that have been used in a variety of ways to benefit the community. A few examples are: The Continuum of Care Program, Fair Housing, Housing Rehabilitation, Public Facilities and Improvements, and Lead-Based Paint.
Housing Rehabilitation
During 2016-2021, more than 99 individuals and families in Gastonia received assistance with major home repairs such as electrical units, floors, plumbing, HVAC, roofs, ADA accessibility and other minor repairs. See a video highlighting this program and an example of repairs completed at the home of a Gastonia resident.
- Public Facilities and Improvements
More than $1.6 million was used to fund repairs to public infrastructure, including high visibility crosswalks, sidewalk connectivity, LED lighting, and several other projects.
The Community Development Block Grant or CDBG Program, authorized in 1974, is one of the longest continuously run programs administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program’s purpose is to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities. The CDBG Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to more than 1,200 units of local government, insular areas, and States fund an array of activities.
For more information about the City of Gastonia’s CDBG Program here or call 704-866-6752.