Friday, Oct 26 2012 4:31PM

Senator Mark Udall applauded the Colorado Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency (4CORE) for successfully securing a competitive grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) which will improve homes throughout rural communities in the state.

"I am pleased that 4CORE will be able to use these competitive grant funds to continue its work to improve housing conditions for rural Coloradans that might need a helping hand in meeting their housing needs," Udall said. "Making our homes more energy efficient not only helps families lower their monthly bills, but also helps strengthen our nation's energy security."

The $50,000 grant will be used to make necessary improvements to 50 homes owned by low-income residents in Archuleta, Dolores, Montezuma, San Juan and La Planta counties, where residents struggle to afford many housing expenses including maintenance and utilities.

Projects will include the addition of some basic infrastructure systems like plumbing and heating, while some homes will be renovated to benefit those with disabilities. While few rural residents can afford to make the investment of buying a home due to the high cost of energy and other services, these grants will ease financial tension and improve the state of living for many families.

For further information, check out this source: Senator Mark Udall