USDA Rural Development Acting State Director Bruce Jones and Single Family Housing Director Janell Telin joined representatives from James Valley Housing, Inc., Grow South Dakota, South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA), and local elected officials, today to recognize two Huron families for their achievement of homeownership. Charles and Heidi Gascoigne and Nyo Maung families are being highlighted for receiving USDA Rural Development Single Family Housing loans to purchase their homes.
“Homeowners take pride in the places they live and work,” said USDA Rural Development Acting State Director Bruce Jones. “Homeownership provides security for families, financial stability, and self-worth. The Gascoigne and Maung families are great examples of how homeownership can be achieved.”
Charles and Heidi Gascoigne, who are father and daughter, learned about USDA’s home loan program two years ago. Even though they both have limited incomes and thought they could never afford a home, they held onto their dreams and never gave up.
“My daughter and I were determined to become homeowners. We put a lot of hard work into making homeownership a reality for our family,” said Charles Gascoigne, new homeowner. “We both have a great sense of pride in our accomplishment and enjoy having family and friends over.”
Nyo Maung and his extended family overcame language barriers with the assistance of an interpreter to complete the necessary paperwork in order to accomplish their dream of homeownership.
“I heard about USDA Rural Development through a friend. I’m so glad we pursued homeownership. My family and I have been in this home for six months and we think it is absolutely beautiful,” said Nyo Maung, new homeowner.
The Gascoigne’s received a USDA Rural Development Section 502 Direct Single Family Housing packaged loan through James Valley Housing, Inc. to purchase a SDHDA Governor’s Home. They also received a $5,000 Grow South Dakota silent mortgage for closing costs.
The Maung’s received a USDA Rural Development Section 502 Direct Single Family Housing packaged loan through James Valley Housing, Inc. to finance their home and leveraged it with a with a $5,000 Grow South Dakota silent mortgage for closing costs. Northeast South Dakota Community Action Program providing financing to James Valley Housing on the construction of the home and Mike Sheets of Sheets Contracting built the Maung’s house.
James Valley Housing, Inc. was also the developer for both projects.
“We are proud to be a part of the various organizations who have come together to make homeownership a reality for those with a dream,” said Deb Ahrens, Executive Director, James Valley Housing, Inc.
“The strength of our communities is built on partnerships and determination,” said Lori Moen, Chief Operating Officer for Grow South Dakota. “The events today celebrate the commitment and collaboration between organizations and families who have dared to believe beyond barriers. Grow South Dakota is honored to be a part of this commitment.”
“Homeownership is fundamental to our rural communities and it takes many organizations working together to invest in South Dakota to ensure that homes are within reach,” said Mark Lauseng, Executive Director of SDHDA. “SDHDA is grateful to partner with USDA Rural Development, Grow South Dakota and James Valley Housing, Inc. to make homeownership achievable for many families.”
June is Homeownership Month, a time to reflect on the important role homeownership plays in American society, especially rural America. Homeownership is a bedrock of the American economy, helping to increase jobs, boost demand for goods and services, and build prosperity.
“Each year the dream of homeownership is realized by more and more South Dakotans,” Jones said. “Many of these first-time homeowners are bringing new ideas, young families and a sense of energy to South Dakota’s rural communities.”
USDA Rural Development has eight offices in the state that assist rural communities. Office locations include a state office in Huron, along with area offices in Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Watertown, and Yankton.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has produced historic investment in rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have strengthened America’s small towns and cities and helped improve the nation’s economy.