SALT LAKE CITY, June 9, 2020 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director Randy Parker acknowledged 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.
“USDA Rural Development’s housing programs continue to be a resource to Utahns who want to live in and contribute to our rural communities,” Parker said. “We appreciate the neighborly spirit of our great state and are proud to have many local partners to help more Utah families achieve their dreams of homeownership.”
In fiscal year 2019 USDA assisted 1,682 new Utah homeowners in purchasing homes, including 119 homeowners who participated in the Mutual Self-Help Housing program in rural Utah communities. This program offers grants to organizations that supervise groups of very-low- and low-income individuals and families as they build their own homes. Group members secure a USDA direct loan and then carry out most of the construction labor on each other’s homes, providing immediate equity. In Utah, USDA partners with eight trusted local organizations to make this happen.
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 and @RD_Utah.
During fiscal year 2019 in Utah, USDA invested $394 million to help 1,682 families and individuals buy a home. USDA also provided $145,638 for home repairs for 22 very low-income rural residents in Utah to improve or modernize their homes, making them safe places to live.
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/ut.