For a few dozen homeless veterans in Cass Lake and White Earth, a national program offered to Indian vets could soon put a roof over their heads.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $302,000 Friday to tribes in Minnesota to help 40 veterans on the two northern Minnesota reservations.

Known as the Tribal HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program, it awarded $5.9 million in funds nationwide, according to an announcement.

"By targeting resources directly to tribes, we can better honor the service and sacrifice of Native American Veterans who now need a roof over their heads," said HUD Secretary Julian Castro. "These heroes deserve hope for a brighter future and by offering permanent housing solutions, combined with needed services and case management, we can work with Tribes to end veteran homelessness."