Today Congressman Henry Cuellar, together with the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development Housing Program and officials from Starr County, announced the awarding of a grant totaling $250,000.

The money will be used to rehabilitate 50 individual houses owned and occupied by very-low and low income individuals in Starr County.  Congressman Cuellar says this unprecedented award will go a long way in providing families with better living conditions.  

“Living in a safe and healthy home is my goal for each of my constituents in Congressional District 28,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Any time money is available for upgrades in homes that truly need repairs, it is my hope that county officials will apply and receive the funding.  Today, I am pleased that Starr County officials, especially Starr County Judge Eloy Vera, saw the need for the funds, and quickly applied.”

Officials from the USDA Housing Program say their programs are designed to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas.  It is their hope to improve the quality of life in rural America.

“USDA Rural Development is very pleased to be able to provide housing rehabilitation founding for rural Texans,” said Scooter Brockette, USDA Rural Development Housing Program Director.  “It is our goal to ensure rural residents are afforded an opportunity to live in decent housing that meets health and safety standards and provides the benefits of energy efficient features.”  

County officials say they’ll use the grant money for repairs that will correct health and safety hazards found in these homes.  The money will also be used for structural improvement and/or additions to the homes if overcrowding is a factor.  Removing health hazards, such as deteriorated painting or siding, and making any modifications to the home for handicapped accessibility is also a priority.

For more information on grants, please contact the Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar at (202) 225-1640.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business,
and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress.  Accessibility to constituents, education, health care and economic development are his priorities.