Source: USDA, 10/28/11

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today selected recipients in 50 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for grants to make critical repairs and improve housing conditions for low- and very-low-income rural residents. Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Doug O'Brien announced the recipients today on Secretary Vilsack's behalf while attending a local Farm Bill listening session in Selma, Ala.

"Providing safe housing to rural residents is a key to maintaining stable communities and creating jobs," Vilsack said. "Across America, USDA works in partnership with Tribes, community organizations and non-profit groups to improve living conditions for thousands of rural residents."

The support Vilsack is announcing today is being provided through USDA Rural Development's Housing Preservation Grants program. Funds are provided to intermediaries such as town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and non-profit and faith-based and community organizations. These organizations then distribute the grants to homeowners and owners of multi-family rental properties or cooperative dwellings who rent to low- and very-low-income residents.

Grants may be used to make general repairs, such as installing or improving plumbing or providing or enhancing access to people with disabilities. Funds may also be used to weatherize and make homes more energy efficient.

The following is a list of N.C. recipients. Funding is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the grant agreement.

North Carolina
• Bryson City – $90,000
• City of Monroe – $100,000
• City of Murphy – $90,000
• City of Hayesville – $90,000