How would you invest approximately $1.4 million in our community? I pose this question because, now through the end of November, you can play a role in helping inform this important decision for our community.
Would you prioritize housing assistance, services for families and individuals, neighborhood improvements or greater access to parks and recreation?
Through the city of Santa Clarita’s 2026 Community Needs Assessment Survey, residents have an opportunity to answer these questions and help shape how federal funding is used to support our community. We want to hear your thoughts and gain valuable insight directly from the people who know our community best, our residents.
Each year, the city receives approximately $1.4 million in Community Development Block Grant funding, commonly known as CDBG funding. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, these funds are intended primarily to benefit low- and moderate-income residents and address important housing and community development needs.
Locally, CDBG funding supports programs residents may already recognize, including rental and homelessness-prevention assistance through organizations such as The Salvation Army, Bridge to Home, Single Mothers Outreach and Family Promise. It also supports domestic violence shelter services, mental health resources, services for seniors and individuals with disabilities and minor home repairs for qualifying homeowners.
This funding makes a meaningful difference close to home. Approximately $210,000 is awarded annually to local nonprofit organizations such as the ones previously mentioned and so many more that provide essential services, including child care scholarships, transportation for individuals with disabilities, mental health services and minor home repairs. These programs help residents navigate difficult circumstances while strengthening the network of support available throughout Santa Clarita.
CDBG funding also helps the city improve public spaces and expand accessibility. At Old Orchard Park, these funds supported new Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalks and walkways, along with a new inclusive playground. At West Creek Park, CDBG funding helped make playground improvements that provide greater access to recreation and play for children of all abilities.
These are tangible examples of how federal funding, guided by local priorities, can enhance residents’ quality of life. We want Santa Clarita to always be a place where people can live, work and play. As a father, I understand that a strong community begins with ensuring families have the resources, support and safe public spaces they need to thrive.
That is why your participation in the short Community Needs Assessment Survey matters. The survey consists of seven simple questions, includes an opportunity to provide comments and is completely anonymous. It gives residents a direct way to identify the services, programs and improvements they believe should be prioritized for the 2027-28 fiscal year. Once the survey closes, the results will be presented to the City Council as part of a public hearing and will help inform future CDBG funding decisions.
Santa Clarita is strongest when residents take an active role in shaping our future. Whether you have personally relied on one of these services, know someone who has or simply have ideas about where the greatest needs exist, I encourage you to share your perspective. To see a breakdown of how the city distributed CDBG funding for program year 2026-27, visit City.sc/2627-cdbg.
The survey is available in English and Spanish through Nov. 27. To participate in English, visit SurveyMonkey.com/r/ZSWV7MN. To complete the survey in Spanish, visit SurveyMonkey.com/r/ZS3Q3SL. Your feedback can help ensure these resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact in our community.
Councilman Jason Gibbs is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at [email protected].
