The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded more than $1 million in grants to two local Indian tribes.

Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribal Housing Authority of Chilmark will receive $466,435 and Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Mashpee is slated to receive $661,659.

This is part of $404 million in Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) allocations to nearly 300 tribes in 27 states nationwide. The funds are distributed each year based on a formula to eligible Indian tribes or their tribally designated housing entities for a range of affordable housing activities. More than $250 million in IHBG funds are still to be allocated among Native American communities this year

IHBG funds are intended to primarily benefit low-income families living on Indian reservations or in other communities. The amount of each grant is based on a formula that considers local needs and housing units under management by the tribe or designated entity.

"These funds are making a real difference in tribal communities each and every day," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "Projects include affordable housing, infrastructure upgrades, community centers and safety programs that every community needs to thrive. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to ensure Native American communities can build their economies in response to their needs and as they see fit."

Eligible activities for the funds include housing development, assistance to housing developed under the Indian Housing Program, housing services to eligible families and individuals, crime prevention and safety, and model activities that provide creative approaches to solving affordable housing problems. The block grant approach to housing was enabled by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA).