Community Development

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. As an Entitlement City, Gulfport receives a direct funding allocation from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Eligibility for participation as an entitlement community is based on population data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

CDBG funds may be used for activities that include, but are not limited to:

• Acquisition of real property
• Relocation and demolition
• Rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures
• Construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes
• Public services, within certain limits
• Activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources
• Provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities

HUD does not provide CDBG assistance directly to individuals, businesses, nonprofits or organizations, or other non-governmental entities.