Department Promotes Resources and Opportunities to Help Rural Residents During Homeownership Month Celebration

WASHINGTON, June 2, 2020 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Bette Brand today kicked off National Homeownership Month by highlighting USDA's ongoing role in supporting rural homeownership. President Trump issued a proclamation on May 29 recognizing June as National Homeownership Month.

"Rural communities are rising to the challenge put forth by the coronavirus pandemic," Brand said. "Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner in building prosperity in rural communities and for the people who call them home – especially those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic."

Rural Development State Director Blake Curtis added, "Because these are tough times affordable homeownership is an important component in strengthening America's rural communities and neighborhoods.

We will continue to help our rural residents by suspending mortgage payments for the time being if they find themselves in a position that they can't pay their mortgage bill."

USDA Rural Development is also working with new borrowers and their lenders to make special accommodations based on local needs and restrictions. For the most up-to-date information on Rural Development's response to COVID-19, visit rd.usda.gov/coronavirus. Updates are also distributed via Twitter @usdaRD.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

In the past, Rural Development in New Mexico and across the nation celebrated Homeownership Month in June with various events honoring homeowners and others. But, this year because of the COVID-19 Pandemic a video was created to remind people Rural Development is still providing homeownership opportunities to those living in rural New Mexico. To view the video, click here.

If you'd like to subscribe to updates from USDA Rural Development, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.