5 towns split $405K in USDA grants
U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. (Credit: www.usda.gov)
The towns of Moca, Manatí, Jayuya, Canóvanas and Barceloneta have been assigned a combined $405,312 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to make critical repairs and improve housing conditions for low- and very-low-income rural residents.
“Providing safe housing to rural residents is a key to maintaining stable communities and creating jobs,” USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “Across America, USDA works in partnership with Tribes, community organizations and nonprofit groups to improve living conditions for thousands of rural residents.”
The support that the USDA announced is being provided through the 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 nonprofit 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.
While Manatí will receive $45,312, the other four towns will get $90,000 each, the USDA said.
