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Source: USDA, 6/20/13
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA is accepting applications for grants to help low- and very-low-income rural residents repair their homes. USDA remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty. Today's announcement is one part of the Department's efforts to strengthen the rural economy.
"The Obama Administration and USDA are working to ensure that rural homeowners and renters have safe, affordable and sanitary places to live," Vilsack said. "These grant funds will help low- and very-low-income residents in our rural communities maintain and repair their homes and make them more energy-efficient."
Grants are provided to qualified intermediaries such as town or county governments, public agencies, community organizations, federally recognized Indian Tribes, non-profit and faith-based organizations. The grants are then distributed to qualified homeowners or owners of multi-family rental properties or cooperative dwellings who rent to low- and very-low-income residents. The grants can be used to weatherize and repair existing structures, install or improve plumbing or provide access to people with disabilities. In addition, the program assists rental property owners and cooperative housing complexes in repairing and rehabilitating their units if they agree to make such units available to low- and very low-income persons.
Here is how the Housing Preservation Grant Program helped improve the housing conditions for an elderly Madison, Ind., resident living on a fixed income. Elizabeth Young received an HPG grant in addition to funds from the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority and the city of Madison.
USDA's home inspection found rotted window sills, numerous leaks, obsolete electrical wiring and other items in need of repair. All of these defects have been addressed, thanks to the collaboration between USDA and state and local partners. Workers installed new gutters and downspouts, repaired and/or replaced vinyl siding and trim, installed new "energy star" doors, upgraded plumbing and electric systems, and made a host of other repairs. Now, Ms. Young, who has lived in her home for more than 40 years, has a safe and barrier-free home.
For additional information on eligibility for Housing Preservation Grants, please see the June 18, 2013 Federal Register.
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