New Hampshire and Vermont’s Low-Income Homeowners Receive $250,000 Support from USDA

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, under the guidance of State Director Sarah Waring for Vermont and New Hampshire, made a significant announcement on Monday. A substantial sum of $250,000 has been allocated to facilitate vital energy improvements for low-income residents in the Twin States. This funding, directed to three nonprofit organizations, is part of a larger national initiative, which totals $80,119,669. This broader program aims to fund over 200 projects, poised to enhance the lives of hundreds of thousands across the country.

Sarah Waring emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Today’s announcement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to those in our rural communities who are most in need of our support.” She highlighted that this funding serves as a crucial reminder to those in traditionally underserved areas, often marked by poverty, that they have not been overlooked. Waring pointed out that President Biden’s agenda to promote equity includes supporting low-income seniors who wish to age in place with dignity, in familiar communities. The funding is specifically aimed at facilitating critical home repairs, reducing energy consumption, and enabling financial savings for these individuals.

The distribution of these funds will have tangible impacts in various communities:

• In Grafton and Sullivan Counties in New Hampshire, as well as Orange and Windsor Counties in Vermont, Cover Home Repair is set to receive $29,905. This funding will be used to enhance the living conditions of six to ten low-income households. The focus will be on reducing heating-fuel costs and overall energy consumption.
• In Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, recognized as one of the five Rural Economic Area Partnerships (REAP) zones in the U.S., Northeast Employment and Training will utilize $150,000. This substantial amount will aid senior homeowners in making energy-efficient improvements to their homes. The project aims to assist 26 rural residents in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans Counties, helping them save money and stay warm during the winter months.
• In Windsor and Windham Counties in Vermont, Southeastern Vermont Community Action will receive $70,095. This funding will be used to implement energy-efficiency improvements for 15 low-income homeowners and their families, leading to significant cost savings.

The Biden-Harris Administration, through Rural Development, continues to play a pivotal role in expanding economic opportunities, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for millions in rural America. This assistance is multifaceted, supporting a wide range of initiatives including infrastructure improvements, business development, housing, community facilities like schools, public safety, health care, and the provision of high-speed internet access in high-poverty areas. For more information about these transformative programs and initiatives, interested individuals can visit www.rd.usda.gov.

Additionally, those wishing to stay informed about the latest updates from USDA Rural Development can subscribe to their updates on the GovDelivery subscriber page. This platform offers an easy way to keep abreast of new developments and opportunities that could significantly impact rural communities.