November 18, 2009

FARMINGTON -- Anita J. (Janie) Dunning, Missouri State Director for USDA Rural Development, announced the 60th anniversary of the Rural Housing program delivering housing services to people in rural areas of Missouri.

Dunning said, "During the span of sixty years the agency has assisted many individuals and families reach the dream of home ownership. 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. For low income applicants, 62 years of age or older, low interest loans or grants are available to repair the home they now own to remove safety and health hazards.

One example of a successful homeowner in 2009 was James Bugg of Moberly. He had rented for the last 30 years. In 1982, he became disabled and now lives on a fixed income; however, he had always dreamed of owning his own home. He completed some homeownership courses through the Northeast Community Action Agency Corporation (NECAC) Homeownership Institute and realized he had a chance at his dream through proper budgeting. He worked with a local realtor, found a home, and applied for a direct rural housing loan. With the additional counseling and budgeting plus some Section 8 financial assistance from HUD administered by NECAC he has fulfilled his dream. To commemorate his success, Dunning presented Bugg a Certificate of Accomplishment in a ceremony at his home.

"I know there are many more rural residents that also have the dream of home ownership," said Dunning. "I invite you to contact Melody Barron, Area Specialist, to discuss your situation and dream of owning your own home. 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 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. Further information on the housing program or any of the rural development programs is available at the Farmington USDA Rural Development office, 812 Progress Drive, Farmington, MO or calling 573-756-6413 Ext. 4 or visiting the Missouri homepage at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mo/.