Housing

USDA Rural Development Home Repair and Rehab, and Community Facilities Programs

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 37.8 million Americans have lived to celebrate their 65th birthdays. The older population is on the threshold of a boom and according to the U.S. Census Bureau projections, a substantial increase in the number of older people will occur during the years 2010 to 2030, after the first Baby Boomers turn 65 in 2011.

USDA Rural Development knows that the overwhelming preference of the American people is to remain at home for as long as possible and to have the ability to choose where they live as they age. USDA Rural Development offers a variety of programs aimed at serving older Americans by providing safe, sanitary and affordable housing, health care and social needs.

Rural Development has a program to help with home repairs to remove health and safety hazards for very low income and the elderly. Loans at 1% can be made for up to $20,000 to help with repairs, weatherization, or handicap accessibility.

In addition, grants of up to $7,500 can be made to persons 62 years or older. More than 80 homes were repaired last year in rural Delaware and rural Maryland. In many instances, the home repair program has made it possible for people to live their sunset years in a home where they have raised a family.

The USDA looks forward to partnering with public bodies and nonprofit groups in rural areas to serve aging America.

More Information
For further information, contact your USDA Rural Development State Office.  You can be connected to your state office by dialing 1-800-670-6553.

USDA Rural Development’s network of contacts

Information provided by Marlene Elliott Brown, State Director, USDA Rural Development for Maryland and Delaware.