The City of San Diego is inviting residents to provide input on how to allocate an estimated $44 million in federal grants aimed at improving living environments, expanding economic opportunities, and increasing housing options for low- and moderate-income communities.
This month, the City released the draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Annual Action Plan, which outlines the proposed distribution of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency Solutions Grant funds.
The draft plan suggests utilizing CDBG funds to enhance the access and availability of affordable housing, support local entrepreneurs and small businesses, and invest in nonprofit facilities.
Additionally, these funds would also fund public services, including meal deliveries, health services, apprenticeship and workforce training, as well as services for seniors and youth.
The Action Plan identifies specific allocations to various nonprofit organizations, such as Reality Changers, Kitchens for Good, Rise Up Industries, Monarch School, Serving Seniors, Somali Family Service of San Diego, Partnership for Environmental Progress, and City Heights Community Development Corporation.
These organizations underwent a competitive process to secure funding for their respective initiatives.
For the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the City of San Diego collaborates with the San Diego Housing Commission to manage the funds.
Through this partnership, the Housing Commission provides essential financial assistance to homebuyers as well as support for constructing rental homes tailored for families and individuals experiencing homelessness.
The proposed use of Emergency Solutions Grant funding will focus on shelters designed for those experiencing homelessness, along with strategies for rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention.
“This federal funding is important to help improve the quality of life for so many people, especially for those who are low- and moderate-income,” stated Christina Bibler, the City’s economic development director.
She emphasized that the funds can significantly impact various aspects of individuals’ lives, ensuring they have safe living conditions, access to workforce training, transportation to medical appointments, and after-school care.
To ensure effective utilization of the funding, the City is urging public input on the projects outlined in the draft Action Plan by May 7.
Residents can read the Action Plan on the City’s official website and are encouraged to submit their comments to the Economic Development Department via email at [email protected] or by mail to the following address: City of San Diego, Economic Development Department, Attention: Draft FY 2026 Annual Action Plan, 1200 Third Ave., Suite 1400, San Diego, CA 92101.
Hard copies of the Action Plan are also available for review at several local libraries, including Central, Valencia Park/Malcolm X, San Ysidro, Logan Heights, Linda Vista, and City Heights/Weingart libraries.
All comments received will be addressed in the final Action Plan, which will be submitted to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The draft Action Plan is scheduled to be presented to City Council on April 21 during the 2 p.m. session, providing yet another opportunity for community members to share their insights.
The City continues to monitor the situation regarding federal grant funding and its potential impact on CDBG, HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency Solutions Grant allocations.
The finalized figures for these grants are expected to be received from HUD in May.
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