USDA Announces Disaster Funding for Rural Development

July 2, 2009 -- Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA is accepting applications for funds to help rural communities affected by natural disasters. The funds are authorized under the Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act of 2009.

"This assistance will help individuals, businesses and communities in areas that were declared a major disaster in calendar year 2008," Vilsack said. "USDA will work to ensure that these funds help rural citizens rebuild their communities and their lives from the devastating effects of tornados, hurricanes, floods and other natural disasters."

USDA Rural Development plans to distribute $188 million: $150 million is being allocated to communities declared disaster areas in calendar year 2008, and $38 million will be used for housing assistance in areas affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.