During the regular March business meeting, the Sheridan City Council approved funding for 18 of the 20 applications submitted to the General Purpose Excise Tax (GPET) program. The grants, awarded to local nonprofits and government agencies, will support a range of community services throughout the city.

Habitat International’s Role in Sheridan

Habitat International, the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, celebrated a milestone this year: 30 years of service worldwide and 32 years of operation in Sheridan. The organization’s executive director reminded council members of its core mission to provide affordable home ownership and essential home repairs for families in need.

In addition to its traditional Home Ownership Program and Home Repairs program, Habitat highlighted two newer initiatives that received funding through the GPET allocation:

• Temporary Crisis Fund – Launched last year, the fund now has a full year of data to demonstrate its impact on families facing sudden housing emergencies.
• Housing Land Trust – A program designed to preserve land for affordable housing development, ensuring long‑term stability for low‑income residents.

Expansion Beyond City Limits

Habitat also announced that its services have recently expanded into Buffalo, extending the organization’s reach across county lines. While the core program offerings remain unchanged, the expansion reflects Habitat’s commitment to addressing housing needs throughout the broader region.

GPET Funding Process

The city’s GPET program invites applications each year from nonprofits and governmental entities seeking support for community projects. This cycle, 20 applications were received; the council’s approval of 18 proposals underscores the city’s dedication to backing organizations that directly improve residents’ quality of life.

Council members expressed confidence that the approved grants will bolster Habitat’s ability to continue delivering affordable housing solutions, emergency assistance, and land preservation efforts. The two applications that were not approved were not detailed in the public record.

Looking Ahead

With the newly approved funding, Habitat International plans to continue its established programs while gathering data on the Temporary Crisis Fund’s effectiveness and advancing the Housing Land Trust’s land acquisition goals. The organization’s long‑term presence in Sheridan, combined with its recent expansion into Buffalo, positions it as a key partner for the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen families and neighborhoods.

City officials and Habitat representatives agreed to reconvene later in the year to review program outcomes and discuss potential additional funding opportunities.

Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.