Housing program celebrates anniversary

The USDA Rural Development’s Rural Housing program is celebrating its 60th anniversary of delivering housing services to residents of rural areas of Missouri.

“During the span of 60 years, the agency has assisted many individuals and families reach the dream of home ownership,” said State Director Anita J. Dunning. “In fiscal year 2009, the agency assisted 6,186 Missouri recipients, representing a banner year with an investment of $578,209,373.”

The rural housing program is designed to provide financing to eligible applicants in rural areas. Funds can be used to purchase, build or repair homes. Low-interest loans or grants are available to low-income applicants 62 years of age or older for repairs in their existing home in order to remove safety and health hazards.

“I know there are many more rural residents that also have the dream of home ownership,” Dunning said. “Additional funds have been included by the Obama administration for rural housing direct programs for next year. In addition, the tax incentive for first time home buyers is another valuable reason to consider home ownership.”

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and to improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure.

The Farmington office serves Iron, Madison, St. Francois and Ste Genevieve counties. Additional information on the housing program or any rural development program is available at the Farmington USDA Rural Development office, 812 Progress Drive, Farmington. Or, call 573-756-6488 ext. 5 or go to the USDA Web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mo/area4.htm.

Washington and Jefferson counties are served by the Hillsboro office, 10820 Business 21, Ste. 201; 636-789-3551; http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mo/hllsboro.htm.