NEWS RELEASE

United States Department of Agriculture • Rural Development

1221 College Park Drive, Suite 200, Dover, DE  19904

Phone: (302) 857-3580 • Fax: (302) 857-3640 • TDD: (302) 857-3585 • Web: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov

Family moves from shelter to a home of their own

Lincoln, DE June 18, 2007 – In recognition of National Homeownership Month, Congressman Michael Castle and USDA Rural Development State Director Marlene Elliott praised the Santiago family and the many organizations and volunteers who pulled together to help lift a family from deplorable living conditions to the dream of homeownership.

            "This amazing story shows the strength of a community and the tremendous impact it can have on one family,” said Congressman Castle.  “I commend the various groups, organizations, and community members along with USDA Rural Development for giving the Santiago family a fresh start and a beautiful home.  Homeownership is a joy and a privilege, and I cannot think of a better opportunity to give a more deserving family."

Three months have passed since Jose and Dweena Santiago moved into their new home, but the memories of their 4-year journey will not be forgotten.  The Santiago’s have 3 children – Ishmal-12, Isaiah-9 and Rebecca-7.  The quality of their life has improved substantially since they moved from the 2 bedroom trailer that was falling to pieces to the 1,600 square foot home they were able to finance with the support of USDA Rural Development’s homeownership program.

“Rural Development’s programs are designed to improve the quality of life for America’s rural citizens and the Santiago family is a model for what our programs can provide,” said Elliott.  “A home is the foundation of our life; it is a place where we can find sanctuary and build on tomorrow’s dreams.  We are pleased to be a part of helping this family succeed.”

Jose and Dweena Santiago learned about Rural Development’s home loan program through the guidance of many in their community.  It was through the family crisis therapist at Lulu Ross Elementary School that the Santiago’s were led to First State Community Action Agency in Georgetown.  The counselors at First State Community Action worked with the family to prepare them for the responsibilities of homeownership and introduced them to Rural Development.

When Ms. Rosalyn J. Allen Echols, Family Crisis Therapist met the Santiago’s she found them living in a home that was considered unsafe for them and their 3 children.  Immediately she began working to help the family.  She coordinated the help of over 60 volunteers that included businesses, state and federal organizations, municipalities, non-profit groups and neighbors that pitched in to dispose of the trailer and clean up the property.

 Ms. Echols found temporary housing for the Santiago family located in Georgetown at a shelter operated by the Sussex Community Crisis Housing Services, Inc.  In order for the family to enter the shelter they were required to set specific goals -- owning a home was one of them. The Santiago’s rented the home for $500 per month; half of the rent went into a fund to support homeownership.

The transition to a new home played a major part in their oldest son’s accomplishments; Ishmal was recently presented the “Delaware Elementary School Principals Association’s Annual Student Recognition Award.”  The award is designed for elementary and middle school students who have shown tremendous improvement, an indomitable spirit, overcome some obstacle, have a positive outlook, good citizenship and are hard working.

Mr. Santiago will be attending Polytech later this year to obtain his G.E.D. 

              USDA Rural Development has a variety of housing programs that can finance new or improved homes for low to moderate income families and individuals who wish to live in rural areas or communities.  The purpose of the program is to provide financing with no down payment and at favorable rates and terms.  Both direct and guaranteed homeownership loans are offered.  Under the direct loan program, individuals or families receive a loan directly from Rural Development.  Guaranteed loans are made by other lenders, such as banks or mortgage companies, and are guaranteed by Rural Development.

       Today, nearly 70 percent of Americans own their homes, and the rate of minority homeownership has climbed to above 50 percent since 2001 when President George W. Bush took office.  During this same time period, through Rural Development’s financial and technical assistance homeownership programs, the agency has returned more than $118 million of the people’s money in rural Delaware.

     For more information about USDA Rural Development’s housing, business or community facilities programs, please call their office located in Georgetown at (302) 856-3990, ext. 4 or visit their website at www.rurdev.usda.gov.