Manchin, Rockefeller, Rahall Announce USDA Funding Awarded for Housing Programs in Southern West Virginia
WASHINGTON, D.C. – November 19, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — U.S. Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller, along with Rep. Nick Rahall (all D-W.Va.), announced Tuesday the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has awarded funding to rehabilitate housing owned and occupied by low-income families in southern West Virginia.
“We should do all we can to care for our neighbors who are in need and make sure those struggling have the necessary resources to get back on their feet,” Manchin said. “These important programs offer hope and assistance to West Virginians with the ultimate goal of helping individuals rise above their challenging circumstances and make a fresh start.”
“With the holidays just around the corner, this funding couldn’t come at a better time for coal mining families in southern West Virginia,” Rockefeller said. “Beyond the immediate benefits, this investment will have a ripple effect throughout communities in southern West Virginia by increasing security in neighborhoods, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy.”
“Good housing is important to maintaining stable communities and creating jobs,” said Rahall. “Investments in home improvement go far beyond fixing four walls of a housing structure. These are investments in the security of our neighborhoods, and enhancing the sense of pride for working West Virginia families.”
Southern Appalachian Labor School (SALS) in Kincaid was awarded $20,400 towards a $134,420 project to rehabilitate housing owned and occupied by low- and very-low income families in coal camps located in southern West Virginia. The Housing Authority of Mingo County will receive a $34,000 grant to allow qualifying homeowners in Mingo and Logan Counties to make necessary repairs to their homes.
The funding announced today has been awarded through USDA Rural Development’s Housing Preservation Grant program, which provides competitive grants to state and local government agencies and non-profit organizations to make housing repairs and improve housing conditions for limited income rural residents. Grants may be used to make general repairs or provide or enhance access to people with disabilities. Funds may also be used to make homes more energy efficient.
