Department Promotes Resources and Opportunities to Help Rural Residents
TOPEKA, Kansas, June 30, 2020 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director Lynne Hinrichsen closed out National Homeownership Month by highlighting USDA’s ongoing role in supporting rural homeownership. President Trump issued a proclamation on May 29, 2020 recognizing June as National Homeownership Month.
“Partnerships, now more than ever, are essential to helping rural communities continue to provide safe, affordable housing – especially when dealing with the economic struggles of a health pandemic" said Hinrichsen. "Under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Perdue and Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand, 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.
In Kansas, USDA invested $148 million to help 1,329 families and individuals buy a home through the Single-Family Housing Direct Loan (Section 502) and Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan (SFHG) programs.
USDA partners with private lenders through the SFHG program to guarantee private loans, securing affordable financing for individuals and families. Through Kansas’ top three lending partnerships of Landmark National Bank, The Bennington State Bank and Golden Plains Credit Union, more than 230 individuals and families were able to find affordable housing in rural communities.
In addition to homeownership opportunities, the state also provided nearly $216,000 for home repairs for 35 very low-income rural residents through the Single-Family Housing Repair Loan and Grant (Section 504) program.
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/ks.
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