Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced USDA is seeking applications for grants to make housing repairs for low- and very-low-income rural residents. The grants are being provided through USDA Rural Development's Housing Preservation Grant program.
“These grants help rural homeowners and rental housing owners repair and improve their properties,” Vilsack said. “Funds may be used to resolve health or safety issues, make accessibility modifications for people with disabilities, or make energy-efficiency improvements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower utility costs.”
“USDA provides Housing Preservation Grants to qualified organizations so they can help rural property owners make repairs and improvements,” said Paco Valentin, USDA Rural Development Texas State Director. “The cost of maintaining a home is challenging for many rural homeowners and improvements funded by this program ensure their homes are decent, safe, sanitary and energy-efficient.”
USDA is making up to $3.3 million in grants available in Fiscal Year 2015. Eligible applicants for Housing Preservation Grants include town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and non-profit and faith-based organizations. USDA does not provide funding directly to homeowners under this program. For additional eligibility information, see page 28943 of the May 20, 2015 Federal Register (http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2015-05-20/pdf/2015-12224.pdf) or contact the USDA Rural Development Texas State Office Housing Program at (254)742-9770. Pre-applications are due by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on July 6, 2015.
President Obama's historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his 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.