The USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation Grant program approved a $50,000 grant to the Hale Aloha O Hilo Habitat for Humanity. In turn, Habitat for Humanity will provide funds for repairs for two to three homes of very low income families who currently do not qualify for bank or conventional loans.
According to Chris Kanazawa, USDA Rural Development State Director for Hawaii and the Western Pacific, this program provides hope for people who otherwise may not be able to repair their homes. “Hilo is a high rainfall area with Habitat for Humanity’s most frequent request being to repair or replace roofs,” he said. “Through the Rural Development program, we’ve been able to provide the funds for these sponsoring organizations for much needed repairs. We’ve not only helped save homes, we’ve improved the quality of life for our rural families.”
These home repairs are expected to create jobs for several small, local contractors and their workers as well as generating sales to local supply houses.
The Housing Preservation Grant is available to sponsoring organizations in rural areas and towns with 20,000 or fewer people. Repairs can be used to repair or replace electrical wiring, foundations, roofs, insulation, heating systems and water/waste disposal system. The program is also available to make homes handicapped-accessible.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President's leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America's economy, small towns and rural communities.
USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values. President Obama and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack are committed to a smarter use of federal resources to foster sustainable economic prosperity and ensure the government is a strong partner for businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in rural communities.