Department Promotes Resources and Opportunities to Help Rural Residents
HILO, HAWAII, June 3, 2020 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Bette Brand today kicked off National Homeownership Month by highlighting USDA’s ongoing role in supporting rural homeownership. President Trump issued a proclamation on May 29 recognizing June as National Homeownership Month.
“Rural communities are rising to the challenge put forth by the coronavirus pandemic,” Brand said. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner in building prosperity in rural communities and for the people who call them home – especially those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
To assist homeowners facing current hardships, USDA is offering payment moratoriums and modified application processes. USDA Rural Development is also working with new borrowers and their lenders to make special accommodations based on local needs and restrictions. For the most up-to-date information on Rural Development’s response to COVID-19, visit rd.usda.gov/coronavirus. Updates are also distributed via Twitter @usdaRD.
According to Hawaii/Western Pacific State Director Brenda Iokepa-Moses, “During these challenging times being able to assist a family get into a home within our rural districts is extremely rewarding. Just as rewarding is being able to keep a family in a home that maybe experiencing hardships related to COVID 19 with allowances that USDA RD has provided for our customers.”
In Hawaii and the Western Pacific, total housing dollars: Direct and Guaranteed for Hawaii $142,285,732 and Western Pacific $12,417,863. In addition, total dollars (L&G) Section 504 Program for Hawaii $367,200 and Western Pacific $1,170,319.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.
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