As the Navajo Nation enters the New Year, key turnover ceremonies continue across the Nation, celebrating new beginnings for families receiving homes through the Community Housing and Infrastructure Department using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
Selected recipients are receiving homes across all five agencies under various work orders administered by the Division of Community Development (DCD).
On December 30, four homes were officially turned over to new homeowners in Klagetoh and Fort Defiance. Community representatives from the Office of the President presented keys and deeds, along with a congratulatory letter from Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren recognizing this important milestone.
Earlier in December, three additional homes were turned over to housing recipients in Twin Lakes, New Mexico. Prior to the Christmas holiday, Deputy Chief of Staff and Community Representative Gary Lewis presented keys to three new homeowners in Oak Springs and Pine Springs, Arizona.
Families also received holiday gift baskets and a holiday ham to celebrate together in their new homes.
Housing recipient Theresa Etsitty shared a heartfelt reflection in honor of her late husband, who passed away from cancer:
“We waited for this day to come, and although my husband isn’t here to see it, my grandchildren and I will live in this house my husband and I could only wish for.”
Division of Community Development staff were present at each turnover to provide homeowners with orientations, review warranty information, and offer guidance on home maintenance to support long-term success.
“Each home represents an important step forward in our fight against housing instability on the Navajo Nation,” said President Nygren. “We work closely with our contractors and DCD staff every day to ensure resources are deployed where they are needed most. I look forward to seeing more families receive homes in 2026.”
Looking ahead, the Community Housing and Infrastructure Department has been short-funded for Fiscal Year 2026.
However, the Housing Improvement Program will begin accepting new applications in February. In the meantime, DCD staff will continue delivering homes to previously selected applicants as work progresses agency by agency. Homes have already been delivered in the Northern and Eastern Agencies. Following completion in the Fort Defiance Agency, deliveries will begin in the Chinle Agency.
Additionally, the Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office is coordinating with DCD to deliver homes in the Western Agency.
The Navajo Nation remains committed to continuing the fight against homelessness and housing instability in 2026.
Happy New Year.
