Washington, DC - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA is seeking applications for grants to make housing repairs for low- and very-low-income rural residents. The grants are being provided through USDA Rural Development's Housing Preservation Grant program.

"These grants help rural homeowners and rental housing owners repair and improve their properties," Vilsack said. "Funds may be used to resolve health or safety issues, make accessibility modifications for people with disabilities, or make energy-efficiency improvements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower utility costs."

Eligible applicants for Housing Preservation Grants include town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and non-profit and faith-based organizations. USDA does not provide funding directly to homeowners under this program. For additional eligibility information, see page 28943 of the May 20, 2015 Federal Register.

USDA is making up to $3.3 million in grants available in Fiscal Year 2015. Pre-applications are due by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on July 6, 2015.

Last year, USDA provided Housing Preservation Grants for 107 projects in 46 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. For example, four Vermont organizations received a total of $250,000 to help rural families repair and rehabilitate their homes. Southeastern Vermont Community Action Program, the Vermont Center for Independent Living, Northeast Employment and Training Organization, and Rural Edge each received a grant. The funds helped 118 rural Vermont families.

President Obama's historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way - strengthening America's economy, small towns and rural communities.