Community Development Block Grant

The CDBG Head Start facility in Lakewood.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is an entitlement program administered by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program provides funding to support affordable housing and community development needs throughout Lakewood. The grant amount is based on population size and the number of low-income persons living in the community.

CDBG funds are used for a wide range of community development activities including neighborhood revitalization, economic development and improved community facilities and services. Any project receiving CDBG funding is required from HUD to meet at least one of three national objectives:

Benefit low- and moderate-income persons.
Aid in the prevention or elimination of slum or blight.
Meet urgent community development needs.

The Planning Department is responsible for administering the CDBG program. Lakewood’s CDBG program year runs from June 1-May 31. Lakewood receives approximately $900,000 in CDBG funds annually. CDBG funds are used to address identified community needs through projects managed by various city departments and through non-profit partners who serve low-income and special needs people.