Friday, Jul 22 2011 3:11PM
Funds from the USDA's Housing Preservation Grants can be used to provide access at homes for people with disabilities.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced it is accepting applications from organizations looking to help low- and very low-income rural residents in need of home repairs and weatherization.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack stated $9.8 million is available through the USDA's Housing Preservation Grants. Grants will be given to local governments, public agencies, Native American tribes and nonprofit and faith-based organizations.
These intermediaries can use the funds to help qualified homeowners and the owners of multifamily properties with residents who have low or very low incomes.
The grants can be utilized to weatherize and repair existing homes, install or upgrade plumbing or provide access for people with disabilities.
"These funds help limited-income rural homeowners improve their living conditions," said Vilsack. "The costs associated with maintaining a home are a challenge for many rural homeowners and the funding we are announcing will be used by awardees to help low- and very low-income residents in rural areas maintain and repair their homes."
Grant applications are due August 22.