USDA Helped Improve Essential Services for Seven Million Rural Residents in 2017

Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue said this week the Department of Agriculture assisted more than seven million rural Americans during the 2017 fiscal year.

Perdue said USDA invested in nearly 400 projects that provided “essential services” that “help communities significantly improve their schools, hospitals and public safety facilities, and improve the quality of life.”  USDA infused $1.5 billion into rural areas in 2017 through the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program for projects such as schools, libraries, municipal centers, first responder vehicles and equipment, social service buildings, recreational activities and other community needs.

The agency says USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas.  The assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community services such as schools, public safety and health care, and high-speed internet access in rural areas.

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