Today, October 2, 2009, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the USDA will be providing $9.8 million “in grants to repair rural housing and make energy efficiency improvements in 48 states and Puerto Rico.” The USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation Grant program is the source of the funding.Secretary Vilsack stated the following in the USDA news release on the funding, ‘“The Obama Administration believes that every citizen deserves access to safe, sanitary and affordable housing . . . These grants will help rural residents and rental property owners repair leaking roofs, plumbing or crumbling foundations, as well as add insulation, caulking and energy-saving windows and doors.”’
Some projects are targeting low-income family home repairs and a lead paint reduction program. Other moneys will go towards housing rehabilitation. The grants have been awarded to non-profit organizations, local governments, and Native American tribes. These groups then provide loans and grants or combinations of the two to eligible applicants.
“Housing preservation grants ensure that rural single and multi-family housing stocks are adequate, meet current safety standards and are accessible by individuals with disabilities.”
To read the USDA news release or view a list of recipients click here.
Posted: 10/02/09
