Warm Springs Tribe to Receive Share of $10 Million Federal Affordable Housing Award

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are in line for a significant investment in affordable housing after Oregon’s two U.S. senators announced nearly $10 million in competitive Indian Housing Block Grant funding for the tribe and one other Oregon tribal nation.

Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden made the announcement in September 2026. The funds come through the Indian Housing Block Grant Competitive Program, a federal program that provides grants to eligible tribes and tribally designated entities to support affordable housing projects in tribal communities. Warm Springs and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians will share the award.

Addressing a Long-Standing Need

Housing has been one of the most pressing challenges facing the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs for many years. The reservation — home to members of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute peoples — has faced a persistent housing shortage that has touched tribal members across generations. Overcrowding, aging housing stock, and limited new construction have all contributed to the problem.

Federal programs like the Indian Housing Block Grant are among the few dedicated funding mechanisms available for new construction in Indian Country. Competitive grants allow tribes to take on larger, more ambitious projects than baseline formula funding alone would support. The award is expected to fund new affordable housing units on the reservation, helping ease overcrowding and improve living conditions for tribal members.

Part of a Broader Push

Oregon has nine federally recognized tribes, and all face varying degrees of housing shortage and infrastructure need. The Oregon Legislature separately allocated $10 million in state funds for tribal housing in 2025, administered through Oregon Housing and Community Services — a sign of growing political will to tackle the issue at multiple levels of government.

For Jefferson County residents, the Warm Springs Reservation is a neighboring community whose well-being shapes the broader region. The Confederated Tribes are major local employers and active stewards of Central Oregon’s rivers, forests, and rangelands. Investment in tribal housing stability is investment in the health of the entire community.

Tribal members and neighbors seeking more information can contact the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs at (541) 553-1161 or visit warmsprings-nsn.gov.