On March 9, 2021, USDA Rural Development issued the latest list of immediate actions being taken to help rural residents, businesses, and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
These updates include:
- Value-Added Producer Grant Program
USDA issued an amended notice to make an additional $35 million available in the Value-Added Producer Grant Program this year to support agricultural producers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding is made possible through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. In total, $76 million is available. - The Department also extended the application deadline to May 4, 2021. The amended notice reduces the matching requirement for applicants seeking the $35 million in COVID-19 relief funding. Applicants must follow requirements in both the original notice and the amended notice. For additional information on the amended notice, see page 12905 of the March 5, 2021, Federal Register.
Funding is Available
As we spring forward and the days get longer, the home buying season in Wisconsin is ramping up. Between now and September 30, 2021, Wisconsin USDA Rural Development has the following funding available to finance the purchase and repair of homes in Fiscal Year 2021:
- Single Family Housing Purchase & Repair Loans – very low income – $2.6 million or 19 loans, based on last year’s average loan amount
- Single Family Housing Purchase & Repair Loans – low income – $4.1 million or 24 loans
- Single Family Housing Repair Loans – $551,000 or 108 loans
- Single Family Housing Repair Grants – $586,000 or 108 grants
Area Loan Limits have Increased
The housing market in Wisconsin remains strong, therefore Wisconsin USDA Rural Development Area Loan Limits have increased as a result of home values rising.
The new limits are as follows:
- Most counties in State – $285,000
Counties with higher limits:
- Kenosha – $303,600
- Ozaukee, Washington & Waukesha – $289,800
- Pierce & St. Croix – $322,000
The delivery of the Single-Family Housing Direct Loan and Grant Programs in Wisconsin has been centralized. Please direct all inquiries and applications to sfhapplication@usda.gov or call 715-345-7611.
Questions? Call 715-345-7611, email sfhapplication@usda.gov or contact the Area Office that services Kewaunee County:
- Brian Hudson, Area Director
Shawano Area Office, Phone: 715-524-8522, E-Mail: wi-rd-shawano@usda.gov
For more information on Coronavirus relief programs and services offered through the USDA Rural Development, visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/coronavirus.