The STTARS Indigenous Safe Housing Center offers a specialized funding opportunity through American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds for Tribal domestic violence programs, shelters, and Tribal not-for-profit organizations. This initiative is part of STTARS' commitment to mitigating the impacts of COVID-19 within Indigenous communities by addressing housing instability and homelessness for survivors of gender-based violence. These sub-awards provide vital financial support for community-led efforts that directly respond to the intersection of public health, housing, and survivor advocacy.
STTARS received these ARP funds through a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, covering fiscal years 2022 through 2025. The program emphasizes the importance of localized solutions, and funds are passed through to eligible Tribal entities to empower culturally specific and needs-based responses. Funding can be applied to a variety of eligible activities such as rental and housing assistance, PPE, COVID-19 testing kits, hotel vouchers for quarantine, food and water support, traditional healing services, cleaning supplies, wellness activities, and technology for remote work.
Each award is up to $15,000, with the opportunity to reapply for additional funding. The funding process is designed to be accessible and responsive, with applications accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. Proposals must be submitted through the Submittable platform. Applicants who require assistance with Submittable or budget development may contact the Grant Manager, Carolyn Gresham, via email.
There is no stated application deadline, but applicants are encouraged to submit as soon as possible due to limited funding availability. STTARS emphasizes that the funding is to be used specifically for COVID-19 mitigation efforts and to support both staff and survivors in Tribal communities. There is a clear focus on flexible, trauma-informed support, and the funding is aligned with broader public health and wellness goals.
For more information or assistance, applicants can contact the STTARS Indigenous Safe Housing Center team at housing@niwrc.org or reach out directly to Grant Manager Carolyn Gresham at cgresham@niwrc.org.
