For: Immediate Release

Contact: Patsy A. Frommer

Housing Preservation Grant Coordinator

(785) 271-2725

Topeka, Kansas, April 2, 2002 -- Kansas USDA Rural Development State Director Chuck Banks announces the solicitation of competitive applications under USDA Rural Development’s Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) program. The HPG program provides qualified public agencies, private nonprofit organizations and other eligible entities, grant funds to assist low and very low income rural homeowners in the repair and rehabilitation of their homes. Congress has appropriated funds for this program in an effort to assist Kansans in rural communities.

According to Patsy Frommer, Housing Preservation Grant Coordinator, USDA Rural Development began receiving preapplications on February 25, 2002, and will continue through May 28, 2002. This period will be the only time during fiscal year 2002 that USDA Rural Development will be accepting preapplications. Preapplications must be received before the closing date.

Submit applications to USDA Rural Development, 1303 S.W. First American Place, Suite 100, Topeka, Kansas 66604-4040. Kansas has received an allocation of $74,580 for fiscal year 2002. A separate application must be submitted for each type of repair program. No more than 50% of the annual allocation will be awarded to any one program. For further information, contact Patsy Frommer (785) 271-2725.

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