Celebrating National Community Development Week

Published on April 06, 2026

This week, we join cities across the nation in celebrating National Community Development Week. It’s a time to recognize the vital programs that strengthen our neighborhoods and the federal investments that make them possible.

Over the last five years, the City of Waco has strategically invested more than $7.6 million from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and $2.6 million from the HOME Investment Partnerships Program.

By funneling these U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) funds directly into our community, we are addressing the real-world needs identified by you—our residents.

What We've Accomplished Together

Our progress is measured by the hundreds of lives that we've been able to support. Over the last five years, these federal programs have:

• Repaired 70 homes for residents in need.
• Helped 22 first-time homebuyers through down payment assistance.
• Provided rental assistance to 130 households.
• Provided essential public services to over 12,000 individuals.

Working with Our Local Partners

The City provides the funding, but our local partners do the heavy lifting to get these services to the right people. We are proud to work alongside organizations that understand the needs of our neighborhoods firsthand.

• Grassroots Community Development: Keeping families safe and dry through their Roof Repair Program.
• Talitha Koum Institute: Providing high-quality Child Care Programs that give our youngest residents a head start.
• Inspiración, Inc.: Strengthening families through Parenting and Children’s Classrooms.

As we look toward the future, the City of Waco remains dedicated to using every available resource to ensure our city remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Happy National Community Development Week!