# National Rural Housing Coalition

> Since 1969, the national voice for rural housing and community development programs.


## Posts

- [Affordable Housing Finance: Collishaw Places Purpose Over Prestige](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/housing-finance-magazine-collishaw-places-purpose-over-prestige/): Tom Collishaw’s journey proves real impact in rural housing comes when you put purpose first.
- [Introducing NRHC’s “Stories” Portal](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/introducing-nrhcs-stories-portal/): Today we’re excited to unveil NRHC’s new Stories portal - dynamic platform built to elevate the voices, experiences, and successes of rural housing and community development across the country.
- [NDAA Update](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/ndaa-update/): Provisions from Rural Housing Services Reform Act included in Senate NDAA
- [House Appropriations Committee Reports Agriculture Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/house-appropriations-committee-reports-agriculture-fiscal-year-2026-appropriations/): House Appropriations Committee Reports Agriculture Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations
- [National Homeownership Month!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/national-homeownership-month/): Here are some pictures of Self-Help families in front of their recently completed homes in Nephi, Utah.
- [Senate Appropriations and Section 502 Loans](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/senate-appropriations-and-section-502-loans/): S.2131, the Senate’s Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill includes provisions that reduce Section 502 loan funds by $400 million and raise the minimum interest rate from 1 to 2 percent. Attached please is a letter to the Senate opposing both and urging the Senate to restore the 1 percent loan and increase the program level. The closing date for the letter is September 11 at 12pm EST. Also attached is a fact sheet on the Senate provisions.  We hope your organization will sign on and that you will also reach out to public officials, contractors, and others involved in the Section 502 program […]
- [FY24 Senate Letter](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fy24-senate-letter/)
- [FY24 House Letter](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fy24-house-letter/)
- [Spring 2023 NRHC Meeting Powerpoints](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spring-2023-nrhc-meeting-powerpoints/)
- [ Hearing on U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Housing Service: Stakeholder Perspectives ](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/hearing-on-u-s-department-of-agricultures-rural-housing-service-stakeholder-perspectives/)
- [Free and Low-Cost Social Media Tools for Rural Housing Organizations](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/free-and-low-cost-social-media-tools-for-rural-housing-organizations/): Join the National Rural Housing Coalition September 15, 2022 at 3pm Eastern to learn about free and low-cost tools to manage and boost your rural housing organization’s social media presence. You don’t need to be an artist to quickly create beautiful social media content for your organization. We’ll give you a quick overview of a few tools available online that make social media content creation a breeze. You’ll also hear social media success stories from two rural housing organizations – one large, and one small. The webinar is free, thanks to sponsorship by Wells Fargo. Sign up below: Add to […]
- [NRHC Powerpoint at the HAC Conference](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-powerpoint-at-the-hac-conference/)
- [Rural Housing Advocates Gather as New Report Shows Their Impact in Rural America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-advocates-gather-as-new-report-shows-their-impact-in-rural-america/): NRHC released its most recent Rural Housing Impact Report, made possible through a generous grant from Wells Fargo. The report documents the success of nonprofit organizations in improving housing conditions in small towns and farming communities across America.
- [Notice of Annual Business Meeting November 15, 2021 at 2PM EST](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/notice-of-annual-business-meeting-november-15-2021-at-2pm-est/): The Coalition's annual business meeting will take place in mid-November.
- [NRHC Letter to President Biden: Keep rural housing in Build Back Better](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-letter-to-president-biden-keep-rural-housing-in-build-back-better/): The NRHC's recent letter to President Biden calls for more funding for rural housing in the Build Back Better Plan
- [Fantastic Self-Help Housing Video](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/check-out-this-cool-video-on-self-help-housing/): Community Rebuilds put together a very nice video on the history of Self-Help Housing.
- [Congratulations President Biden and Vice President Harris](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/congratulations-president-biden-and-vice-president-harris/): TO: President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris.  Congratulations on your victory.  As you take office, we urge you to address the pressing need for decent housing in rural America  A recent Wall Street Journal article noted, “Fewer homes are being built per household than almost any other time in US history, and it is even worse in rural areas.” As a result, in some rural communities, economic growth is impeded not by the lack of jobs but by the lack of housing for workers.[1]   Some 1.5 million occupied rural units are substandard, more than 30% lack running water and the […]
- [Year End Wrap-Up](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/4075-2/): Dec 21, 2020 The House just released the FY 21 Omnibus Appropriations/ COVID relief bill. The bill is more than 5000 pages long.  The COVID package did not include any funding for rural development. FY 21 Highlights The House and Senate Agriculture Bills were relatively close in appropriations recommendations and the conference agreement reflects that.  One of the few areas of disagreement was rental assistance and vouchers.  The House included the total for vouchers in the rental assistance account, as proposed by USDA.  The Senate did not and prevailed in conference. Most programs continue at the FY 20 level, which, […]
- [COVID- 19 and California’s Housing Crisis](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/covid-19-and-californias-housing-crisis/): In California, the ongoing housing crisis has made it hard for local and regional governmental authorities to combat and counter the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. Crowded and substandard housing make individuals more susceptible to the spread of Covid-19 which is an airborne illness. The shortage of housing, strict zoning laws, high poverty have led to an increase in homelessness with people out on the streets or living in their cars and an increase in Covid-19 infections.  Shelters are often overcrowded and less able to enforce social distancing. In the city of Oakland California they have gotten roughly 1000 unsheltered […]
- [June is Homeownership Month](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/june-is-homeownership-month/): Below are some photos of happy homeowners. Eleele Iluna Subdivision, Kauai, Hawaii Self-Help Housing site in Woodlake, CA Community Action Team, St. Helens, Oregon. Community Action Team signing a Self Help rehab project contract with a client during COVID-19. Pokai Bay Self-Help Housing Project Pokai Bay Project, Honolulu
- [Support Rural Economies](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/support-rural-economies/): By any measure, most of rural America has still not recovered from the Great Recession. According to the Economic Research Service, since 2007, rural median income has averaged 20 percent below the urban median. Over 15 percent of all rural counties, more than 300 across the country, are persistently poor with at least 20 percent of the population living in poverty over the last 30 years. By any measure, most of rural America has still not recovered from the Great Recession. According to the Economic Research Service, since 2007, rural median income has averaged 20 percent below the urban median. […]
- [Job Opportunity](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/job-opportunity/): Executive Director Job Posting March 2020 After 40 years the Executive Director of FNPH is retiring. The Board of Directors with the assistance of the Executive Director will be conducting a thorough search to fill the position. The history, mission and role in the organization is described in more detail below. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with the skills and experience to build on a legacy and work collaboratively with a passionate Board of Directors to strategically plan the next phase of growth and development looking at the mission of the organization and creating a long term […]
- [Rural Housing Coalition Celebrates 50 Years of Improving Housing Conditions Across America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-coalition-celebrates-50-years-of-improving-housing-conditions-across-america/): Over 40 rural organizations gathered in Washington, DC to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the National Rural Housing Coalition WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of Directors of the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) held a two-day meeting on December 3-4, 2019, in Washington D.C., marking the coalition’s 50th Anniversary. A commemorative pin and poster was released by the coalition this week and a page documenting NRHC’s 5 decades of advocacy is featured on the organization’s website. In addition, a reception to honor NRHC’s anniversary and accomplishments was also held on December 3rd on Capitol Hill, with Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA) providing a keynote. “NRHC, a national membership organization […]
- [People’s Self Help Housing: 50 Years of Improving Housing and Lives](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/peoples-self-help-housing-50-years-of-improving-housing-and-lives/): It is the 50 year anniversary of People’s Self Help Housing PSSH (PSSH).  PSSH has been working to increase the availability of affordable housing in California’s central coastal area since 1970.  PSSH’s mission is to help low income families build and purchase their own homes while also providing affordable rental housing.  PSSH started with the help of a group of local citizens and community leaders who wanted to tackle the shortage of available low income housing. These concerned citizens and community leaders were able to address the lack of low income housing after the Fair Housing act of 1968. PSSH […]
- [The Dwindling Supply of Affordable Rental Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/the-dwindling-supply-of-affordable-rental-housing/): In September 2019 Elizabeth La Jeunesse, Alexander Hermann, Daniel McCue and Jonathan Spader of the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, authored the paper   Documenting the Long-Run Decline in Low-Cost Rental Units in the US by State. In this paper the researchers sought to answer the following questions: “1) has the number of low-cost rental units indeed declined since 1990, and if so, by how much? 2) Over which periods of time did this decline take place? And 3) are there any differences in the size and timing of losses across US states?   The study conducted […]
- [NBC News Gets it Right: USDA Housing Needs More Investment](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nbc-news-gets-it-right-usda-housing-needs-more-investment/): By Bob Rapoza, NRHC Executive Secretary We read with great interest the recent report by NBC News “Rats, roaches, mold: Under USDA’s watch, some rural public housing is falling apart.” The families profiled in the article are living in a terrible situation that must be remedied, and Washington policymakers must take action to ensure other families aren’t put in similar situations in the future. NBC News correctly notes that a 2016 USDA report estimated that $5.596 billion is needed just to preserve the agency’s rental housing over the next 20 years. In recent years, USDA budgets have not only sought […]
- [The NRHC Turns 50](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/the-nrhc-turns-50/): The NRHC is celebrating its 50th anniversary 
- [House FY 2020 Appropriations Requests](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/house-fy-2020-appropriations-requests/): The deadline for requests to the House Agriculture subcommittee of Appropriations is April 4th. If you have not done so, we urge you to contact your Representative now. Members are inundated with requests, so the sooner your rural housing request are in, the more time staff will have to process and include them in their Boss’s request to the Committee. Below you will also find templates for House Appropriations Ag Subcommittee requests for rural housing programs.  
- [Shutdown Impacts Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/shutdown-impacts-rural-housing/): As the budget stalemate in Washington drags on the consequences and impacts are becoming clearer and increasingly disturbing. Without any justification, the Administration has closed 25 percent of the federal government and among the casualties are agencies with the responsibility for financing affordable housing, clean drinking water, and community opportunity. NRHC members have reported about one small but important agency – the Rural Housing Service – and the recent absence of its housing assistance. Families waiting to close their home mortgages are hung out to dry, families building their homes are stymied, and hundreds of thousands of families receiving rental […]
- [Congress Deals Rural Housing Organizations a Mixed Hand](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/congress-deals-rural-housing-organizations-a-mixed-hand/): PRESS RELEASE Contact: Bob Rapoza National Rural Housing Coalition 1331 G St NW, 10th Floor Washington, DC  20005 Phone: (202) 393-5225 Fax (202) 393-3034 Congress holds on passing rural housing funding, despite strong indications for the need and history of strong bipartisan support Washington, D.C. — October 1, 2018 — On Friday, the House of Representatives adjourned to focus on the midterm elections, while the Senate stays behind to continue working on nominations. The National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) lamented Congress’ inability to work out issues in H.R. 6147, which includes U.S. Department of Agriculture funding, as well as Interior, Treasury, […]
- [Greystone Leads Effort to Upgrade Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/greystone-leads-effort-to-upgrade-rural-housing/): Greystone Leads Effort to Upgrade Rural Housing for the Poor Shortages of affordable, low-income housing are reaching crisis proportions in some parts of the U.S. Plantation Apartments in Richmond Hill, Ga. New York finance firm Greystone & Co. has teamed up with federal and state agencies in Georgia to preserve 1,310 low-income rental apartments built in the 1970s and 1980s by the Agriculture Department for rural households.   New York housing-finance firm Greystone & Co. has teamed up with federal and state agencies in a $168.6 million effort to preserve and recapitalize 1,310 low-income rental apartments in Georgia. The units, […]
- [Neighbors build each other's homes in Wasco](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/neighbors-build-each-others-homes-in-wasco/): ABOVE: Edgar and Naomi Bermudez shuffle rock that will be used for the foundation of their new home in Wasco. Dozens of families in Wasco are building new homes for each other, taking part in a program funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and guided by the nonprofit, Self Help Enterprises. The new homeowners don’t need a dollar for a down payment. Instead, they are required to do 40 hours of work on the home every week. The development in Wasco consists of 33 homes, with 10-12 in each of three waves. Learn more from KBAK/KBFX in Bakersfield
- [Self-Help Homes groundbreaking in Provo, UT](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/self-help-homes-groundbreaking-in-provo-ut/): Construction begins for seven families in Provo, Utah. Project supported by Self-Help Homes. FULL STORY: Seven families in Southern Utah are anxious to get started on what will be their new homes. A groundbreaking ceremony in LaVerkin last Wednesday turned over shovels of dirt, that will soon become a foundation. Four of the new homes will be built in LaVerkin and the other three in Toquerville. The families are part of Self-Help Homes. They all received low interest loans from the government to build each others homes. The program is growing in Southern Utah as word continues to get out.
- [Dear Colleague: Support Adequate Funding for USDA Rural Housing Service in the FY19 Budget](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/dear-colleague-support-adequate-funding-for-usda-rural-housing-service-in-the-fy19-budget/): Congressmen Sean Duffy (R-WI) and Jim Costa (D-CA) are leading a Dear Colleague in support of USDA Rural Housing programs. Below, find the letter. Support Adequate Funding for USDA Rural Housing Service in the FY19 Budget DEADLINE: March 12, 2018 Dear Colleague, Please join Representatives Sean Duffy and Jim Costa in sending the following letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies to respectfully request adequate funding for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Housing and water sewer programs. USDA Rural Housing programs provide a critical lifeline to low-income, rural […]
- [FY 2019 Appropriations Request Forms](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fy-2019-appropriations-request-forms/): Below are appropriations request forms for FY 2019: FY 2019 Self-Help Approps Request Form FY 2019 MPR Approps Request Form FY19 DOL Approps Request Form FY 2019 Section 516-514 Approps Request Form FY 2019 Section 515 Rural Rental Housing Loans Approps Request Form FY 2019 Section 502 Approps Request Form
- [NRHC Meetings Feature Insights from the Administration and the Hill](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-meetings-feature-insights-from-the-administration-and-the-hill/): On November 28 and 29, the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) convened for its Board of Directors Meeting and Annual Business Meeting in Washington, D.C. As a part of these meetings, NRHC invited officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) Rural Housing Service (RHS), staff from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), and facilitated a panel on issues facing the rural rental housing market. Attendees received a legislative update from NRHC Executive Secretary Bob Rapoza. In addition, the Coalition hosted a reception on Capitol Hill, where rural housing champion Representative Jim Costa (D-CA) spoke about the […]
- [Administration Releases Third Supplemental Emergency Funding Request](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/administration-releases-third-supplemental-emergency-funding-request/): Friday, November 17, 2017, the Administration released the third supplemental emergency funding request in response to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, as well as the California wildfires. The White House is requesting an additional $44 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 for states impacted by the storms and fires, in addition to Federal property repairs. The Administration’s request letter, submitted by Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney, identifies five programs/activities to fund. Those programs are traditional disaster relief provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA); emergency agricultural assistance; educational recovery fund; […]
- [Disaster Assistance for Rural America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/disaster-assistance-for-rural-america/): In the past month, three major hurricanes have devastated coastal communities in Texas and Florida and virtually the entire island of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). Damage assessments for Texas and Florida amount to over $270 billion and details are not yet known for Puerto Rico and the USVI. By contrast, total damage in the Gulf Opportunity Zone, or GoZone, established after Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma in 2005, totaled around $200 billion. Hurricane Harvey made landfall near Rockport, Texas on August 24 as a Category 4 storm. Although Harvey was downgraded to a tropical storm, it […]
- [What Happened on the Way to the Trump Budget for Rural Development -- The Story So Far](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/what-happen-on-the-way-to-the-trump-budget-for-rural-development-the-story-so-far/): The drumbeat for a dramatic re-ordering of federal rural development policy came with the release of the Trump Administration’s so-called “Skinny Budget” for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 in March. “Skinny” because it was short on details, the first budget of the Trump era proposed a $54 billion reduction in domestic discretionary spending with an increase of the same amount for the Pentagon. It also proposed a $30 billion increase in defense for the current fiscal year (2017), financed in part by unspecified reductions totaling $18 billion from domestic programs. For the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 21 percent, or […]
- [Homeownership Month Celebrations in Traver, California](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/homeownership-month-celebrations-in-traver-california/): Self-Help Enterprises celebrated National Homeownership Month and NeighborWorks Week in Traver, CA on June 22, 2017. Attendees at the event included Joyce Allen, USDA Rural Development Deputy Administrator for Single Family Housing, and Gary Wolfe, NeighborWorks America Western Region Vice President. During the celebration, Self-Help Enterprises recognized over 150 youth and adults from the La Casa de Cristo Church in Scottsdale, AZ, who volunteered for four days (June 19-22) to help families in Traver build their own homes. Under Self-Help Enterprises’ supervision, 11 families are building their own homes through the Mutual Self-Help Housing program in Traver, CA. Families are […]
- [Groundbreaking of the Pokai Bay Project by Self-Help Housing Corporation of Hawaii](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/groundbreaking-of-the-pokai-bay-project-by-self-help-housing-corporation-of-hawaii/): National Rural Housing Coalition member organization, Self-Help Housing Corporation of Hawaii (SHHCH) hosted a ground breaking ceremony on June 21, 2017 in Waianae. Twelve families are set to begin construction on their new homes, and once the Pokai Bay Project is completed, there will be 70 Mutual Self-Help built homes in the community. SHHCH is a nonprofit organization that provides technical assistance to low-income families in Hawaii that enables the families to build their own homes through the team self-help housing method. Over the past 52 years, SHHCH has helped families develop 656 homes in Hawaii with the U.S. Department […]
- [NRHC Member Greystone Affordable Development Celebrates Grand Reopening of 18 Section 515 Properties in Kentucky](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-member-greystone-affordable-development-celebrates-grand-reopening-of-18-section-515-properties-in-kentucky/): Greystone Affordable Development, an affordable housing development company and a member of the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC), and Winterwood, Inc., a property management company, recently celebrated the reopening of 18 newly-renovated affordable housing communities in Kentucky. All of the properties were financed through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Section 515 program and ranged from 12 to 60 units per property. In total, 563 units located in 14 counties were included in the recapitalization and rehabilitation project, which was completed in just 12 months. Greystone worked with Winterwood, USDA’s Rural Housing Service (both the Washington, D.C. and […]
- [Nearly 600 Rural Organizations Signify Opposition to White House Proposal for USDA Reorganization and Budget Request in Advance of Congressional Hearing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nearly-600-rural-organizations-signify-opposition-to-white-house-proposal-for-usda-reorganization-and-budget-request-in-advance-of-congressional-hearing/): Rural Organizations from across the country wrote to Congress, voicing opposition to the Administration’s proposal to eliminate the Under Secretary for Rural Development and funding for rural development programs. Washington, D.C.—June 12, 2017— Today, nearly 600 organizations sent a letter to Congress opposing the Administration’s proposal to eliminate the Under Secretary for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The letter also lamented draconian cuts to rural development programs in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 Budget request that would severely impact people from economically distressed rural communities. Signatures came from organizations located all around the country, and included […]
- [President Trump Signs Executive Order on Prosperity for Rural America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/president-trump-signs-executive-order-on-prosperity-for-rural-america/): On April 25, 2017, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America.” The executive order includes seven sections. Section 1 outlines the importance of having a secure and affordable food, fiber, and forestry supply for the country, and that the promoting rural communities is in the national interest. Section 1 also states that it is in the country’s interest to ensure that regulatory burdens do not hamper food, agricultural production, and job creation in rural communities. Section 2 calls for the creation of the “Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity,” which will […]
- [Funding for Rural America Matters](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/funding-for-rural-america-matters/):   Three hundred seventy-three organizations and 657 individuals have signed onto a letter in support of funding for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) programs that provide essential assistance to America’s rural and small town communities for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018. The FY 2017 House and Senate Agriculture Appropriation Bills, H.R. 5054 and S. 2956 respectively, provided funding for USDA’s Rural Housing Service (RHS) and water and wastewater programs that would allow RD and its nonprofit partner organizations to continue to improve access to affordable and safe housing and community facilities for families in rural America. The sign-on […]
- [National Rural Housing Coalition Releases 2017 Impact Report](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/national-rural-housing-coalition-releases-2017-impact-report/): On Tuesday, April 4, the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) released its 2017 Impact Report. The report, which was funded through the generous contribution of Capital One, included the findings from the 2017 Impact Survey as well as the success stories from 23 rural housing organizations. The purpose of the Impact Report is to inform policy makers and the public of the broad economic and human impact of nonprofit housing organizations – and the programs that they utilize. The survey asked organizations to respond to seven categories, including homeownership activities, rental housing activities, and clean water and sewer activities. In […]
- [Infrastructure Includes Substandard Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/infrastructure-includes-substandard-housing/): The lack of adequate water and waste disposal systems is a major infrastructure need of rural America and it is directly link to another pressing infrastructure need – substandard housing. Most violations of federal drinking water standards are made by small communities with limited resources to dedicate to compliance.  Small and rural drinking water systems constitute nearly 85 percent of the 53,000 community water systems in America. The 2013 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Drinking Needs Assessment indicated a national need of $64.5 billion for small community water systems.[1] This represents 17.4 percent of total national need. The lack of adequate […]
- [Advocacy Tools](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/advocacy-tools/): Use NRHC’s Advocacy Tools to strengthen your advocacy efforts and make your voice heard on Capitol Hill. Learn how to build relationships with your Senators, Representatives, Local Media, and members of your community. Toolkits Making the Most of Congress’ Time At Home: In-District Advocacy. Learn how to best engage with your Senators and Representatives while they are at home in your district, whether by inviting them to visit your organization, meeting one-on-one, or partnering with other local organizations to host a Town Hall meeting. Local and Social Media 101.  Learn how to use social media to build and sustain strong relationships […]
- [Smithsonian Magazine Recognizes Self-Help Enterprises’ Dedication to Helping America’s Working Poor](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/smithsonian-magazine-recognizes-self-help-enterprises-dedication-to-helping-americas-working-poor/): In an article published in the December 2016 issue of Smithsonian Magazine, author Dale Maharidge chronicled the struggles that many of America’s working poor, including high poverty rates, housing affordability issues and food-scarcity.  While just over 43 million people, or 13.5 percent of the population, live below the poverty line ($11,880) in the United States, over 31 percent – over 101 million – of Americans are considered “low-income,” meaning they make no more than $48,600 for a family of four or $23,760 for a single person.  These families’ low-incomes means that affording safe housing is frequently an issue, particularly because […]
- [National Rural Housing Coalition Presents on the Impact of the Election on Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/national-rural-housing-coalition-presents-on-the-impact-of-the-election-on-rural-housing/): On November 30, 2016, Bob Rapoza presented at the Housing Assistance Council 2016 Rural Housing Conference in Washington, D.C..  The National Rural Housing Coalition Plenary session included a discussion on what the results of the 2016 Presidential election mean for rural housing. To view the presentation materials, please click here for the PowerPoint and here for the NRHC Transition Team paper.
- [Housing Experts Chart Course to Preserve Affordable Rural Rental Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/housing-experts-chart-course-to-preserve-affordable-rural-rental-housing/): National Rural Housing Coalition convenes leaders in Affordable Rental Housing to Discuss Ways to Stem Increasing Shortages in Rural America and Prepare Recommendations for Legislators   Washington, D.C.— On October 4-5, the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) convened leaders from the rural housing community to evaluate and prepare recommendations that will ensure affordable rental housing options remain available to low- and very low-income residents. The purpose of the conference, which was sponsored by PNC Bank, was to gather feedback from the community and confer on data shared by staff from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Housing programs. Using this […]
- [Income, Poverty and Population in Rural America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/income-poverty-and-population-in-rural-america/): The U.S. Census Bureau’s annual report on poverty and income in America was released on September 13, 2016. The findings of this report have been highlighted by many sources as an example of the economic growth experienced in many communities in recent years, noting that the median household income increased 5.2 percent from 2014 to 2015, the fastest increase on record.  For example, the White House Blog stated that the “report from the Census Bureau shows the remarkable progress that American families have made as the recovery continues to strengthen. . . . Income grew for households across the income distribution, […]
- [New Census Report on 2015 Poverty and Income Highlights the Urban/Rural Divide](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/new-census-report-on-2015-poverty-and-income-highlights-the-urbanrural-divide/): Today, the US Census Bureau released their annual report on poverty and income. Economists predicted an increase of 1 to 2 percent in incomes in 2015, but the report showed a surprising 5.2 percent increase. A closer look at the data reveals a stark contrast between the economy in urban and rural communities. Urban Areas on the Rise Inside of metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs), median incomes grew by 6 percent. Much of that growth was confined to cities dwellers, whose incomes rose by 7.3 percent compared to suburban and exurban residents, whose incomes rose by a more modest 4 percent. This is the […]
- [Achieving the American Dream through Programs that Work](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/achieving-the-american-dream-through-programs-that-work/): Alton and Robin Alexander lived in Western Michigan with their two daughters in a comfortable, modest and safe neighborhood prior to the Great Recession. However, as the nation’s economy struggled, this family of four lost their home and was forced to move into a substandard rental unit. The Alexanders’ story is not unique. Homeownership is considered a central tenet of the American Dream, but its value to families and communities is sometimes overlooked. June is National Homeownership Month, which shines a spotlight on the value of homeownership. For many low and moderate income rural families, homeownership is only possible through […]
- [Fahe Partners with USDA and WV Housing Development Fund to Help Low-income Families Access Affordable Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fahe-partners-with-usda-and-wv-housing-development-fund-to-help-low-income-families-access-affordable-housing/): The Federation of Appalachian Housing Enterprises, Fahe, is one of several nonprofit organizations that participated in USDA’s loan packaging pilot program, which became permanent in May 2016.  They are working to further expand the reach and scope of the Section 502 Direct loan program to assist low-income rural families in achieving homeownership.  To achieve this goal, Fahe has partnered with the West Virginia Housing Development Fund (WVHDF) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).  For the first time a state housing agency, WVHDF, will package USDA Section 502 Direct loans. Fahe will serve as the intermediary for the loans. A […]
- [Spotlight on the FY 2017 House and Senate Agriculture Appropriations Bills](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spotlight-on-the-fy-2017-house-and-senate-agriculture-appropriations-bills/): This is a moment in time when avoiding disaster with Congress or the Administration is viewed as a success, and seeking even the most modest improvements in policy or resources seems out of the question and hopelessly optimistic.  In light of these conditions, for those interested in improving housing and communities in rural America, the House (H.R.5054) and Senate (S.2956) Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations bills for Fiscal Year (FY) 2017 are, in separate ways, remarkable. Even though both bills had overall allocations amounts less than the enacted level in FY 2016, the FY […]
- [Fact Sheets](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fact-sheets/): Download handouts and advocacy materials
- [Spotlight on Migrant Farmworker Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spotlight-on-migrant-farmworker-housing/): A recent article published by the Statesman highlights the devastating housing conditions many migrant farmworkers are facing across America, and particularly in Texas.  The article, aptly titled “Unbelievable” by Jeremy Schawrtz, explains how, in spite of existing laws that require housing facilities for migrant farmworkers to be inspected and licensed to ensure minimal health and safety conditions, many of these properties are never inspected, or, if they are inspected and problems are discovered, the owners of the properties face no penalties. In fact, as the Statesman’s investigation uncovered, Texas, unlike other agriculture states, provides no funding to ensure safe and […]
- [Under Secretary Mensah Meets with Central Valley Family Using USDA Funds for New Water Well](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/under-secretary-mensah-meets-with-central-valley-family-using-usda-funds-for-new-water-well/): While in California last week, U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Lisa Mensah toured a self-help housing tract that Self-Help Enterprises is developing in Merced County and visited with a family that is a recipient of USDA funds. Representative Jim Costa (D-CA) was also on the tour. Under Secretary Mensah and Congressman Costa met with the Cabrera family, of Madera, California, who have spent the past two years without running water.  According to Tom Collishaw, the President and CEO of Self-Help Enterprises, the Cabreras are one of around 2,000 families in the rural Central Valley who are suffering from water […]
- [Spotlight on the Intermediary Relending Program](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spotlight-on-the-intermediary-relending-program/): The Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) was first enacted in the 1980s and has had remarkable success in strengthening rural communities through investment in local projects.  Because loan capital is revolved several times over the course of an IRP loan to an intermediary, USDA estimates that every $100,000 in IRP loan funds leads to the creation of 76.5 jobs by the entities that receive funding from the IRP intermediaries.  Further, despite significant decreases in funding over the past decade, the IRP is credited with assisting an estimated 9,000 rural business across the country. What is the IRP? The Intermediary Relending Program, […]
- [2016 Omnibus Bill Includes Record Funding For Rural Housing Programs](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2898-2/): FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    Contact: Bob Rapoza National Rural Housing Coalition Phone: (202) 393-5225   2016 Omnibus Bill Includes Record Funding for Rural Housing Programs WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2015 – Yesterday, Congress released the omnibus appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2016. This bill funds several programs, including the Mutual Self-Help Housing Program, Section 521 Rural Rental Assistance, and HOME Investment Partnership Program, above the levels previously included in the House and Senate appropriations bills.  This funding will allow the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to address the needs of rural communities. “The funding for rural housing […]
- [Do Presidential Hopefuls Have a Plan for Rural America?](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/do-presidential-hopefuls-have-a-plan-for-rural-america/): The presidential hopefuls are well underway in their respective campaigns, with a combined total of six debates over the past few month.  While many candidates are focused on how they can make America stronger, there has yet to be any major discussion on what their plans are for rural America.  Read more in Bob Rapoza’s article, “Do presidential hopefuls have a plan for rural America?” – published in The Hill on December 3, 2015.
- [Mutual Self-Help Housing Program Briefing and Reception](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/mutual-self-help-housing-program-briefing-and-reception/): The videos that were shown are provided below. 4. Peoples’ Self-Help Housing: 5. Rural CAP Alaska: 6. Self-Help Enterprises: 7. Self-Help Homes:
- [Report: Reflecting on 50 Years of Success](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/report-reflecting-on-50-years-of-success/): Throughout rural America communities confront the lack of safe and affordable housing. Rural communities have less access to affordable credit options and lower incomes, which in turn leads to increased instances of persistent poverty. Additionally, many rural communities face substandard housing and lack of plumbing. Because of these issues, rural Americans are often unable to find or afford decent housing. The goal of this report is to recognize and commemorate the 50th anniversary and 50,000th home built through the Section 523 Mutual Self-Help Housing Program. This program is designed to assist eligible families in achieving their dreams of homeownership. Administered […]
- ["Spending Turnaround at USDA is Good News for Rural Families"](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spending-turnaround-at-usda-is-good-news-for-rural-families/): Bob Rapoza wrote an article on USDA Section 502 spending in FY 2015 that was published by Government Executive today.  In the article, Bob discusses the importance of the home loan program for rural communities, the role that Under Secretary Lisa Mensah played in ensuring the success of the program, and the bipartisan support for the home loan program on the Hill. To read the article, please click here. Bob is the Executive Secretary of the National Rural Housing Coalition and the founder and president of Rapoza Associates, a public interest lobbying and government relations firm in D.C.
- [Rural IMPACT?](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-impact-2/): Ten communities from around the country have been named Rural IMPACT Demonstration Sites.  Rural IMPACT is a part of a larger initiative by the White House Rural Council (also called “Rural Impact” – only this time all the letters of “Impact” are not capitalized), which is designed to address the high rates of child poverty in rural areas by using a multi-generational approach for the investment of public and private resources in families and communities.  Rural Impact is an effort by the administration to combat poverty and improve upward mobility for people living in rural areas or tribal places. The […]
- [Spotlight on the National Farmworker Jobs Program](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spotlight-on-the-national-farmworker-jobs-program-5/): The National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) is a Department of Labor (DOL) program administered in the United States and Puerto Rico by local organizations to provide services for migrant and seasonal farmworkers.  The NFJP program, originally authorized under the 1964 Civil Rights Act, is now a part of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA).  Today, the program consists of 52 employment and training grants and 17 housing grants. Community organizations, as NFJP grantees, and state agencies work together to address the needs of the farmworker population, including housing and other support […]
- [Why HOME Program Funding Matters](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/why-home-program-funding-matters/): There is a substantial need for housing resources across our nation’s small town and farming communities.  Although homeownership is the predominate type of housing available in rural America, rural housing is much more likely to be substandard than in urban areas. In fact, six percent of rural homes are either moderately or severely substandard, often with leaking roofs, or inadequate plumbing or heating systems.  Affordability issues also plague rural communities, with some eight million rural families paying more than 30% of income for housing, and 23% of all rural families paying more than 35% of income for shelter.  To improve […]
- [Spotlight on Hillary Clinton’s Rural Platform](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spotlight-on-hillary-clintons-rural-platform/): As the 2016 Presidential Race heats up this fall, the candidates on both sides of the aisle are introducing their platforms on a variety of policy issues, from immigration, to tax reform and education.  However, Hillary Clinton is the only candidate to have released a platform on a topic that directly impacts the lives and livelihood of people all around the country – a plan for Rural America.[1]  Hopefully, this is just the start and more candidates will lay out their policy plans.  For now, rural advocates can analyze the plan we have thus far. Clinton’s “Plan for a Vibrant […]
- [Supreme Court Issues Decision in Texas Department of Housing v. Inclusive Communities, Inc.](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/supreme-court-issues-decision-in-texas-department-of-housing-v-inclusive-communities-inc/): On Thursday, June 25, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its opinion in Texas Department of Housing v. Inclusive Communities, Inc., in which the Court held (5-to-4) that disparate-impact claims are cognizable under the Fair Housing Act (FHA).  A decision on this issue was a long time coming, as the Court in two previous terms granted certiorari for two cases involving disparate-impact claims and the FHA.  However, before either case (Magner v. Gallagher and Mount Holly v. Mount Holly Gardens Citizens in Action) was decided, the parties to those disputes settled, and so Texas Housing v. Inclusive Communities […]
- [Senate Appropriations Subcommittee FY16 THUD Bill Drastically Cuts HOME Program](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/senate-appropriations-subcommittee-fy16-thud-bill-drastically-cuts-home-program-2/): On Tuesday, June 23, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) proposed to fund the HOME Investment Partnerships program (HOME) for FY16 at just $66 million, only 7 percent of the FY15 amount ($900 million).  Such a drastic cut will result in long-term consequences.  While NRHC is aware that the country is facing budget constraints, we implore members of Congress to work together to develop a budget that will restore the HOME program. Authorized in 1990, the HOME program is a locally-driven block grant program that is vitally important to improving the quality of life of […]
- [National Homeownership Month:  Celebrating 50 Years and 50,000 Homes Built Through the Mutual Self-Help Program](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/national-homeownership-month-celebrating-50-years-and-50000-homes-built-through-the-mutual-self-help-program/): June is National Homeownership Month, recognizing the important relationship between homeownership and achieving the American Dream, and encouraging people around the country to learn more about homeownership opportunities and financial management plans.  In 1995, President Clinton decreed a week-long celebration in recognition of homeownership, this week long recognition was extended in 2002 when President George W. Bush issued a proclamation declaring the entire month of June to be National Homeownership Month. For the past six decades, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been actively involved in homeownership assistance for rural America, and this year marks the fiftieth anniversary […]
- [Ask Your Senators To Support USDA Rural Housing Funding](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/ask-your-senators-to-support-usda-rural-housing-funding/): Sen. Schumer (D-NY) released a Dear Colleague Letter asking fellow Senators to join him in urging the Senate Appropriations Committee to fund critical USDA Rural Housing programs! Please CALL YOUR SENATORS TODAY and ask them to (1) Sign the Schumer Dear Colleague Letter and (2) Submit an Appropriations Request for these programs! Senators can sign on by contacting Lane Bodian (Lane_Bodian@schumer.senate.gov) by March 24. Resources The Schumer Dear Colleague letter can be found here. NRHC’s Appropriations Request Spreadsheet is here. NRHC’s List of Senate Targets is here. Sample Script When you call your Senators’ office: “Hi, my name is [name] and I am with [organization] and I live/work in your district. I’d like […]
- [2014 NRHC Budget Bulletins](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2014-nrhc-budget-bulletins/): January 6, 2014 – Tell President Obama to Make Rural Housing A Priority January 9, 2014 – Tomorrow is the Deadline to Tell President Obama to Make Rural Housing a Priority January 13, 2014 – Announcing NRHC’s 2014 Board of Directors January 14, 2014 – FY14 Omnibus Advances January 15, 2014 – FY14 HUD Budget January 28, 2014 – Farm Bill Agreement Includes “Rural Definition” Provision January 29, 2014 – House Passes Farm Bill with “Rural Definition” Provision February 4, 2014 – Senate Passes Farm Bill with “Rural Definition” Provision February 24, 2014 – CDBG, Tax Reform, FY15 Appropriations March 4, 2014 – USDA Plan to Implement “Rural Definition” March 4, 2014 No. […]
- [Support Funding for USDA Rural Housing Programs](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/support-funding-for-usda-rural-housing-programs/): Last week, Rep. Hinojosa (D-TX) and Sean Duffy (R-WI) released a bipartisan Dear Colleague Letter asking Members of Congress to join them in urging the House Appropriations Committee to fund critical USDA Rural Housing programs! Please CALL YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TODAY and ask them to (1) Sign the Hinojosa/Duffy Dear Colleague Letter and (2) Submit an Appropriations Request for these programs! The deadline for Representatives to sign on has been extended to March 18, and they can contact Fernando Ruiz (Fernando.Ruiz@mail.house.gov) in Hinojosa’s office to sign on. The deadline for Representatives to submit their electronic Appropriations Requests is March 23. Resources The Hinojosa/Duffy Dear […]
- [Housing and Community Development Organizations Boosted the Rural Economy by $380 Million and 40,000 Jobs in 2013](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-publishes-2014-impact-report/): Today, the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) published a new report, “Impact Report: The Economic and Human Impact of Nonprofit Organizations on Rural America,” summarizing the results of its annual survey of over 100 rural housing and community development organizations. The report estimates that in 2013 alone, nonprofit organizations generated $380 million in economic activity and created over 40,000 jobs in rural communities. “This report documents not only the broad economic and human impact of nonprofit housing and community development organizations, but also the critical role of federal programs—particularly those administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)—in improving the quality […]
- [USDA Leaves $100 Million In Rural Affordable Housing Funds on the Table](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/usda-leaves-100-million-in-rural-affordable-housing-funds-on-the-table/): On Monday, October 27, NRHC delivered a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack, criticizing the Department’s failure to spend $100 million in program funding that aims to help families in rural America obtain and improve affordable housing. NRHC asserts that demand for rural housing assistance remains high, but USDA did not process applications in a timely fashion. “In this extremely tight budget environment, more than 1,000 families living in small, rural communities will not receive housing assistance authorized by Congress. Who could argue that rural housing conditions are so good or rural economies so strong that an injection of mortgage funds is […]
- [HAC Conference: 502 Packaging Training](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/hac-conference-502-packaging-training/): For those of you attending HAC’s Rural Housing Conference this December! This year, HAC is offering a three-day advanced course covering USDA Rural Development’s Section 502 Direct Loan Program at the December Conference. The course provides invaluable insight as to how this homeownership financing resource can be utilized. Learn how to assist potential borrowers and work in partnership with RD staff, as well as other nonprofit organizations and regional intermediaries to deliver successful Section 502 loan packages. This course is intended for and specifically framed for those experienced in utilizing Section 502 and other affordable mortgage products. Participants will learn […]
- [Rural Revitalization Success Story](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-revitalization-success-story/): Download NRHC’s Success Story Template HERE!
- [Social Media Webinar: How to Create a Social Media Strategy](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/social-media-webinar-how-to-create-a-social-media-strategy/): The focus of this webinar was on how to create an effective social media strategy, regardless of your organization’s limited resources. By providing this webinar, in addition to other critical resources and information, NRHC aims to help build the capacity of rural housing organizations and to help raise awareness of the issues impacting rural families and their communities. NRHC would like to thank Capital One for its generous support of this webinar and our organization. You can download a copy of the PowerPoint Presentation here. Check our other Social Media resources, including: Advocacy Toolkit: Creating a Social Media Strategy Advocacy Toolkit: Using Local and […]
- [NRHC 2014 Impact Survey](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-2014-impact-survey/): In recent years, funding for USDA Rural Housing programs has been cut significantly, making it more difficult for nonprofit organizations and state and local governments to improve housing conditions in their communities. To help protect these resources, rural housing and community development organizations must find new and better ways to document their impact and effectiveness. That’s why we are inviting all rural housing organizations to participate in our 2014 Impact Survey.   Click here to download the 2014 NRHC Impact Survey TODAY! The more organizations that participate, the better we can document the critical role rural housing organizations play in planning, […]
- [Special Offer to New Members](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/special-offer-to-new-members/): In order for NRHC to continue to be successful, we need your support. That’s why NRHC is offering new members a one-year membership for $250, including subscriptions to our Budget Bulletin and Rural Housing Reporter publications. Join Today! We are in a period of unprecedented austerity in the federal budget. Both Congress and the White House have supported spending cuts that negatively impact rural communities. While both parties have neglected rural housing and community development programs, USDA has been especially unsupportive. Yet, despite these challenges, NRHC has successfully supported and expanded housing opportunities in rural America. Through a combination of old-fashioned shoe leather, action-oriented research, […]
- [NRHC Releases New Rental Housing Report](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-releases-new-rental-housing-report/): Today, the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) released a comprehensive report on the state of affordable rental housing in rural communities. The report, “Rural America Rental Housing Crisis,” documents both the substantial contributions that federal rural housing programs have made to improving housing conditions in rural America and the challenges to preserving and maintaining these gains in an era of federal budget austerity. “In many rural communities, the only source of financing for affordable rental housing is U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Housing programs. This housing is especially important for our most vulnerable residents, including the elderly, low-income families, people with disabilities and […]
- [NRHC Statement on FY15 House Appropriations Bill](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-statement-on-fy15-house-appropriations-bill/): Washington, DC, May 29, 2014 – Bob Rapoza, Executive Secretary of the National Rural Housing Coalition, issued the following statement in response to today’s vote by the House Appropriations Committee to approve its Fiscal Year 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill: The National Rural Housing Coalition applauds bipartisan Congressional efforts to restore funding for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development programs, including those that help low-income rural families access affordable housing and grants that help small rural communities provide potable water and waste disposal systems to residents. Both the House and Senate Appropriation bills soundly reject USDA’s proposed cuts to Rural Development programs […]
- [Opposition Mounts to Proposed Cuts in Federal Rural Development Programs](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/opposition-mounts-to-proposed-cuts-in-federal-rural-development-programs/): Today, NRHC delivered a petition signed by more than 1,400 rural organizations and advocates to Congress, voicing strong opposition to the significant funding cuts proposed in the President’s 2015 budget for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development programs, including a 60 percent cut in low-cost homeownership loans and over $150 million in grants that help small rural communities provide potable water and waste disposal systems to residents. “This year, the Administration is at it again, and rural communities are saying they have had enough. We hope Congress’s budget will reflect the fact that rural communities deserve affordable housing and […]
- [Find Out Whether Your Community Is Eligible For Rural Housing Programs!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/is-your-community-eligible-for-rural-housing-programs/): Earlier this year, Congress enacted the Farm Bill, which included a provision to extend eligibility for USDA Rural Housing programs through the 2020 Census. Did your community make the cut? Check out NRHC’s new easy-to-use Rural Definition guide! Use our guide to find out if your community is eligible and when families in your area can start accessing USDA’s critical housing programs! Phase 1 of USDA’s implementation takes place on May 6, so check out our guide today! Under the new definition, a community is considered eligible if it (1) has 10,000 or fewer residents, (2) has 20,000 or fewer residents and […]
- [Sign NRHC's Petition TODAY!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/sign-nrhcs-petition-today/): Sign NRHC’s Petition In Support of USDA Rural Housing Funding For the 5th year in a row, the White House has used every excuse in the book to cut funding for USDA Rural Housing and Community Development programs, making it even more difficult for low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities to access affordable housing and undercutting our nation’s struggling rural economies. This year alone, the Administration proposes an additional $270 million in reductions. If enacted, the President’s budget would amount to a 57 percent cut in funding for Rural Housing and Community Development since 2010. Please, Sign NRHC’s […]
- [Keep Your Focus on the Senate](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/keep-your-focus-on-the-senate/): Senate Deadline is Less Than 1 Week Away! So far, 12 Senators have signed onto Senator Schumer’s (D-NY) Dear Colleague letter in support of funding for USDA Rural Housing programs, including: Boxer, Cantwell, Coons, Gillibrand, Heitkamp, Hirono, Leahy, Manchin, Sanders, Schumer, Shaheen and Wyden. PLEASE CALL YOUR SENATORS TODAY and ask them to sign onto Sen. Schumer’s letter! The deadline to sign on is Wednesday, April 2nd. Congressional staff should contact Lane Bodian (lane_bodian@schumer.senate.gov) to sign on. Not sure who to contact? Here is our list of Senate Targets and their staff! Last year, 28 Senators signed on, including: Baldwin, Baucus, Begich, Brown, Carper, […]
- [Does Your Representative Support Rural Housing Funding?](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/does-your-representative-support-rural-housing-funding/): Thank you for your advocacy! With your help, Rep. Hinojosa (D-TX) and 77 other Representatives signed onto a Dear Colleague letter urging the Appropriations Committee to fully fund USDA Rural Housing programs. This is 15 more Representatives than last year’s letter and a whopping 49 Representatives more than in FY13. Please remember to thank your Representatives for their support! Did your Representative sign on? A total of 78 Representatives signed on including: Barber, Benishek, Blumenauer, Bonamici, Bordallo, Brown, Brownley, Bustos, Butterfield, Capps, Carney, Cartwright, Castor, Christenson, Clay, Cleaver, Costa, Courtney, Davis, DeFazio, Delaney, DelBene, Ellison, Enyart, Esty, Fattah, Gabbard, Gallego, Garamendi, Al […]
- [Ask Congress to Support Funding for Rural Housing Programs](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/ask-congress-to-support-funding-for-rural-housing-programs/): Yesterday, Rep. Hinojosa (D-TX) issued a Dear Colleague letter, asking Members of Congress to join him in urging the House Appropriations Committee to fully fund USDA Rural Housing programs. PLEASE CALL YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TODAY and ask them to sign onto Rep. Hinojosa’s Appropriations Request today. The deadline to sign on is Friday, March 28. Congressional staff should contact Holly Bullard (holly.bullard@mail.house.gov) to sign on. Last year, 63 Representatives signed on, including: Blumenauer, Bordallo, Brown, Brownly, Bustos, Butterfield, Capps, Cartwright, Castor, Christenson, Clay, Cleaver, Costa, Davis, DeFazio, DelBene, Ellison, Enyart, Gabbard, Gallego, Garamendi, Al Green, Grijalva, Hanabus, Alcee Hastings, Heck, Holt, Huffman, […]
- [President’s Rural Development Budget ‘Races to the Bottom’](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/presidents-rural-development-budget-races-to-the-bottom/): Last week, NRHC published a press release, criticizing the White House and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for leading a “race to the bottom” by proposing significant funding cuts to Rural Development programs, including those that help low-income rural families access affordable housing and grants that help small rural communities provide potable water and waste disposal systems to residents. “The President’s budget demonstrates just how little this Administration and USDA support Rural Development,” says Bob Rapoza, executive secretary of the National Rural Housing Coalition. “Over the past few years, this Administration has led a ‘race to the bottom,’ by using one […]
- [2013 NRHC Budget Bulletins](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2013-nrhc-budget-bulletins/): Archived: 2013 Budget Bulletins
- [2013 Rural Housing Reporters](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2013-rural-housing-reporters/): Vol. 54, No. 1 Vol. 54, No. 2 Vol. 54, No. 3 Vol. 54, No. 4 Vol. 54, No. 5 Vol. 54, No. 6
- [Letter to the President](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/letter-to-the-president/): Earlier this week, Rep. Hinojosa (D-TX) finalized his letter to President Obama, asking that Rural Development be a higher priority in the upcoming FY 2015 budget. With your help, a total of 59 Representatives—including both Democrats and Republicans—signed onto the letter! This sends a clear message to the Administration that these programs are critical to our communities and deserve their support! Thanks to all the Representatives that signed on, including: Blumenauer (D-OR), Bonamici (D-OR), Brown (D-FL), Rep. Brownley (D-CA), Bustos (D-IL), Butterfield (D-NC), Capps (D-CA), Cartwright (D-PA), Christenson (D-VI), Clay (D-MO), Cleaver (D-MO), Costa (D-CA), Courtney (D-CT), DeFazio (D-OR), DelBene (D-WA), […]
- [NRHC Annual Meetings - December 3, 2013](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-annual-meetings/): NRHC will be hosting its Annual Meetings on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 from 8:30am to the mid-afternoon. All meetings will take place at the Rapoza Associates offices, located at 1331 G Street NW, Washington, DC. IMPORTANT: Please remember to RSVP to the NRHC Annual Meetings. This helps us better prepare for the upcoming event. To nominate an NRHC member for the Board of Directors, please return this completed Board of Directors Nomination Form by November 1 to Sarah Mickelson at Sarah AT Rapoza DOT Org. Task Force Meetings NRHC’s Task Force Meeting will be held from 8:30 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.  Task Force Meetings are open to […]
- [2012 Rural Housing Reporters](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2012-rural-housing-reporters/): 2012 Rural Housing Reporters Vol. 53 No. 1 Vol. 53 No. 1 Addendum Vol. 53 No. 1 Addendum 2 Vol. 53 No. 2 Vol. 53 No. 2 Addendum
- [Nominations Welcome!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nominations-welcome/): All nominations for NRHC’s Board of Directors are due by Friday, November 1st to Sarah Mickelson at Sarah AT Rapoza DOT org. NRHC Board of Directors are elected by the membership to serve 3-year terms.  This year, the Class of 2013’s term will expire on December 31, 2013.  At the Annual Business Meeting in December 2013, members will elect the Board of Directors Class of 2016. Members will also elect an Executive Committee, which will serve for 1 year. All nominees must be current members of NRHC for at least 1 year. Here is a link to Board of Directors […]
- [New Report on LIHTC in Rural America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/new-report-on-lihtc-in-rural-america/): Yesterday, Rapoza Associates released a new report on the impact of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit in rural communities. Because LIHTC is often seen as an urban program, several NRHC members – including Self Help Enterprises, People’s Self Help Housing, South County Housing, Community Housing Improvement Program, and Coachella Valley Housing Coalition— wanted to educate lawmakers about LIHTC’s impact in rural America. The report finds that LIHTC is the principal tool used by rural communities to develop and preserve affordable rental housing. In fact, since its inception in 1986, LIHTC has developed or preserved more than 270,000 units of affordable housing in […]
- [1,200 Signatures!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/1200-signatures/): This week, over 1,200 rural organizations and advocates joined NRHC’s petition, urging Congress to fully fund USDA Rural Housing programs! Our petition sent a clear message: rural housing programs are critical to our communities and are a key tool to help improve the lives of rural families! Check out our petition here! And, thank you for your advocacy!
- [Thank You!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/thank-you/): Thank you for signing our petition in support of rural housing and community development programs! For more information about the National Rural Housing Coalition, please visit our website at ruralhousingcoalition.org.

## Pages

- [](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/5734-2/): The Farr Family The Ma’ili Community Hollister California Ann Wisdom Reedley California Canterbury Park Randolph Creek Road Wrightland Apartments The Winston Family Tamelia Long Ms. Earline Davis North Lake Village The Dishman Family Ms. Caroline Batley Oscar Giles Memorial Estates The Schemansky Family The Stamper Family Cosecha Court Apartments The Cabili Family (2014) Rural Definition Ms. Violet Lewis Heritage Woods of Freeport Greystone Affordable Housing Initiatives LLC The Brooks Family West Broadway Villas The Walker Family Tosha Toquerville The Cabili Family (2017) Serving Families in Need Beverly Vaughn Eugene and Carolyn Reiner Julie Leavitt Isis Goode Douglas and Marianne Hale […]
- [Draft Senate Rural Housing Appropriations Letter](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/draft-senate-rural-housing-appropriations-letter/): Here is the list of signers on the Smith (D, MN)  Rural Housing appropriations letter: Final List of Signers Baldwin (D, WI) Bennett (D,CO) Brown (D,OH) Cantwell, (D, WA) Carper, (D, DE) Coons (D,DE) Cortez Masto, (D, NV) Durbiin (D, IL) Gillibrand (D,NY) Hassan (D,NH) Hirono, (D, HI) Kaine  (D, VA) Kelly (D, AZ) King (D, ME) Klobuchar (D, MN) Lujan (D, MN) Markey (D, MA) Merkley (D, OR) Padilla (D, CA) Peters (D, MI) Rosen (D, NV) Sanders (I,VT) Schatz  (D, HI) Shaheen (D, NH) Tester (D, MT) Warnock (D, GA) Warren (D, MA) Welch (D, VT) Wyden (D, […]
- [Final Letter to House Appropriations](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/draft-letter-to-house-appropriations/): List of Signers so Far: Balint (D-VT)  Bonamici (D-OR) Blunt (D-DE) Blumenauer (D-OR) Costa (D-CA) Craig (D-MN)  Davids (D-KS) Delbene (D-WA) Garcia (D-TX) Grijalva (D-AZ) Gottheimer (D-NJ)  Hoyle (D-OR) LaMalfa (R-CA) Nickel (D-NC) Panetta (D-CA) Peterson (D-CO) Ruiz (D-CA) Sewell (D-AL) Salinas (D-OR)  Scanlon (D-PA) Thompson (D-MS) Wiley (D-NC) Letter sponsors:  Reps. Jim Costa (D-CA); Doug LaMalfa R-CA) Staff contacts:  Rep. Costa  —Wade.Roberge@mail.house.gov; Rep. LaMalfa – sam.dorsey@mail.house.gov
- [Resources](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/resources/): Social Media Tent Poles Graphics Events Management Platforms Analytics Twitter Email Marketing/CRM Other Tools
- [Privacy Policy](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/privacy-policy-2/): NRHC (“we”) respects the right to privacy of our members and visitors to our website and social channels, and we are committed to maintaining your confidence and trust. This Privacy Policy explains what kind of private data we collect from our members; why we collect such information; how we share, transfer and secure private data; and your privacy rights. What Private Data Do We Collect? What Private Data Do We Collect? In 1969, a group of concerned rural community activists, public officials, and non-profit developers formed the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) to fight for better housing and community facilities […]
- [2022 CDFI Institute](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2022-cdfi-institute/): March 8, 2022  11:00 am – 6:00 pm ET Secure Online Event Registration The CDFI Coalition’s 2022 Annual Institute takes place on March 8th from 11am-6pm ET, and will be virtual this year. The conference is typically held in Washington, DC and brings together staff from Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), community development investors, and policymakers who are engaged within the CDFI industry, and this year will be no exception. In fact, we expect to have record attendance, with CDFI practitioners participating from all across the country. Our keynote speakers include multiple members of Congress, and federal agency officials. As a reminder, the registration fee […]
- [Rural Revitalization Success Stories](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/stories/): These success stories provide real-life examples of how rural housing organizations leverage federal, state, local, and private resources to plan, develop, finance, and construct affordable housing for low-income families in rural America. Most appeared in one of NRHC’s many publications.  
- [NRHC 50TH ANNIVERSARY](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/50th-anniversary/)
- [Events](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/news-publications/events/)
- [Rural Housing Research](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-research/): USDA Press Release USDA Research Rural Housing Coalition Research
- [Bipartisan Opposition to White House Rural Housing Budget Cuts](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/bipartisan-opposition-to-white-house-rural-housing-budget-cuts/): More than 50 members of Congress oppose the Trump Administration's Rural Housing Budget Cuts.  Their message is simple: Rural America Needs More Affordable Housing and the Fiscal Year 2020 USDA Budget does almost nothing to address this need.
- [Shutdown Impacts Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/shutdown-impacts-rural-housing/): The shutdown has resulted in: •	Construction delays •	Rental housing and assistance issues •	Paying out of pocket for projects, contractors, etc. •	No RHS training •	No rural housing grant disbursements 
- [Advocacy Toolkit](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/advocacy-tools/): Letter to Fortenberry and Bishop (4-28-2021):
- [Advocacy Toolkit](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fact-sheets/advocacy-toolkit/): Download In-District Advocacy Toolkit
- [HOME](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/home-4/): Download PDF
- [Preserving Affordable Rural Rental Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/housing-experts-chart-course-to-preserve-affordable-rural-rental-housing/): National Rural Housing Coalition convened leaders in Affordable Rental Housing to Discuss Ways to Stem Increasing Shortages in Rural America and Prepare Recommendations for Legislators. 
- [Map 2](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/map-draft-2/)
- [Map Drafts](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/map-draft/): Places with populations of 50,000 or less AND either (1) poverty at or above 30 percent OR (2) poverty at or above 20 percent and ineligible for CRA (2,200~ census tracts) Places with populations of 10,000 or less AND either (1) poverty at or above 30 percent OR (2) poverty at or above 20 percent and ineligible for CRA (800~ census tracts)
- [Rural Housing Advocates Celebrate 50,000 Homes](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-advocates-celebrate-50000-homes/): National Rural Housing Coalition members gathered in DC to Celebrate the 50,000th Self-Help Home
- [2017 Impact Report](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/publications/nrhc-2017impactreport/): NRHC’s new report recognizes the impact of housing and community development organization on improving access to safe and affordable housing and community facilities for America's rural communities.
- [Thank you!](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/thank-you/): Thank you for signing NRHC’s petition in support of USDA Rural Housing programs. We appreciate your support! For more information on our coalition and how you can become a member, please visit our website at ruralhousingcoalition.org
- [NRHC Releases New Rental Housing Report](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/nrhc-releases-new-rental-housing-report/): The National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) released a comprehensive report on the state of affordable rental housing in rural communities. 
- [Rural Housing Success Story: Edith Arreguis](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/spotlight-edith-arreguis/): With the help of NRHC Member Self-Help Enterprises, based in Visalia, California, Edith Arreguis built her own home under USDA's Self-Help Housing program.
- [President’s Budget ‘Races to the Bottom’](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/presidents-budget-races-to-the-bottom/): Last week, NRHC published a press release, criticizing the White House and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for leading a “race to the bottom” by proposing significant funding cuts to Rural Development programs, including those that help low-income rural families access affordable housing and grants that help small rural communities provide potable water and waste disposal systems to residents. “The President’s budget demonstrates just how little this Administration and USDA support Rural Development,” says Bob Rapoza, executive secretary of the National Rural Housing Coalition. “Over the past few years, this Administration has led a ‘race to the bottom,’ by using […]
- [Archive](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/archive/): Section 502 Direct Loan Program Success Stories (2011) Section 523 Mutual Self-Help Housing Fast Facts (2011) State Profiles (2010) Section 515 Rural Rental Housing Loans Fast Facts (2011) Section 514/516 Farm Labor Housing Grants/Loans Fast Facts (2011) Rental Housing Preservation Fast Facts (2011) Rural Water/Sewer Programs Fast Facts (2009-2010) Other Documents Letter on RHS Funding to Secretary Vilsack
- [Rural Housing Blog](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/blog/): Latest Posts Stories
- [](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/): Since 1969, the national voice for rural housing and community development programs. About us Learn more about the National Rural Housing Coalition Learn more Stories Rural housing success stories from the field, organized by state Learn more Call for Nominations NRHC Members: Please submit your nominations for the 2028 Class of the NRHC Board of Directors Nomination Form Fiftieth Anniversary The NRHC recently celebrated 50 years working to support rural housing organizations Learn more Appropriations Our work to support appropriations for rural housing programs. Learn more Click here to view the PowerPoint Presentation from the Annual NRHC Meeting on November […]
- [Ensuring Safe Water and Sewer Services](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/ensuring-safe-water-and-sewer-services/): National Rural Housing Coalition members believe that all rural people — regardless of income — deserve access to basic community services, like safe water and sewer systems. Today, many rural communities have severely limited access to a clean and affordable water supply and are considered to live in “water poverty.”  USDA’s Rural Water and Sewer programs help provide some of the poorest and more remote rural communities with access to such basic services. Rural Water/Sewer Programs USDA’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is the primary federal force in rural water and waste development, providing loans and grants to low-income communities in […]
- [Supporting Farm Labor Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/supporting-farm-labor-housing/): National Rural Housing Coalition members support the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Section 514/516 Farm Labor Housing programs that aim to improve the quality of life and economic opportunity for America’s rural farmworkers. Today, farmworkers have the worst housing needs of all rural people. More than 60 percent of the 3 million farmworkers in the U.S live in poverty−a rate 5 times the national average. As such, farmworkers must overcome powerful barriers to decent housing, forcing many to live in substandard, crowded conditions. Section 514/516 Farm Labor Housing Programs Section 514/516 is the only federal program that provides affordable loans and […]
- [Promoting Affordable Rental Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/promoting-affordable-rental-housing/): The National Rural Housing Coalition and our members work to increase access to affordable rental housing in rural America.  We strongly support the Section 515 Rural Rental Housing program as a model for addressing rental housing needs for our most vulnerable residents — low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Section 515 Rural Rental Housing Program Section 515 is the principal source of financing for rental housing in rural communities. Today, more than 500,000 of America’s most vulnerable families live in housing financed by Section 515. Under the program, housing developers−mostly for-profit entities−compete for 30-year loans at a 1 percent interest […]
- [Housing Need in Rural America](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/overcoming-barriers-to-affordable-rural-housing/): By any measure, much of rural America has still not recovered from the great recession. According to the Economic Research Service, since 2007 rural median income has averaged 20 percent below the urban median. Over 15 percent of all rural counties, more than 300 across the country are persistently poor with at least 20 percent of the population living in poverty for over the last 30 years.[1] It is difficult to argue that rural America does not need improved housing: A disproportionate amount of the nation’s occupied substandard housing is located in rural areas. As reported by the Housing Assistance […]
- [Opportunities for Rural Homeownership](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/protecting-opportunities-for-rural-homeownership/)
- [Home](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/home-3/): [wowslider id="2"]
- [Links](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/home-2/): 10,000 Friends of Rural U. S. Department of Agriculture Rural Housing Service U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development U.S. House of Representatives U. S. Senate
- [Fact Sheets](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/fact-sheets/)
- [Videos](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/videos/)
- [Testimony](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/testimony/): October 1, 2012 – Robert A. Rapoza, National Rural Housing Coalition, before the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Commission on Housing on the future of federal housing policy. March 20, 2012 – Robert A. Rapoza, National Rural Housing Coalition, before the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies on the FY 13 Budget. March 20, 2012 – Claudia Shay, Self-Help Housing Corporation of Hawaii, before the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies on the FY 13 Budget. March 20, 2012 – […]
- [The State of Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/state-of-rural-housing/): The State of Rural Housing Rural America was hit hard by our nation’s recent economic crisis. Nearly 10 percent of all mortgages in rural areas were subprime, with interest rates above 10 percent. This is twice the rate of mortgages in urban areas. At its worst 4 out of every 5 rural communities had mortgage delinquency rates of at least 15 percent; more than 1/3 of rural communities saw foreclosure rates above 8 percent. Yet, even before the financial crisis, these communities experienced economic distress. Higher poverty and unemployment rates have made it far more likely that a rural family […]
- [Budget Bulletins](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/budget-bulletins/): 2015 NRHC Budget Bulletins January 22, 2015 – Changes in the 114th Congress January 29, 2015 – Additional Changes in the 114th Congress February 2, 2015 – President’s FY16 Budget Proposes Further Cuts to Rural Housing Programs February 9, 2015 – New Rules for the National Housing Trust Fund, NDC Academy Awards February 24, 2015 – Sign On Letter to Preserve Section 4 Funding February 25, 2015 – Call Your Representatives and Ask Them To Support Funding for USDA Rural Housing Programs! February 27, 2015 – Support Funding for CDBG and USDA Rural Housing Programs! March 4, 2015 – Call Your Representatives and Ask Them To Support Funding for USDA Rural Housing Programs! March 16, 2015 – 59 Representatives and Counting! […]
- [Rural Housing Reporters](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-reporters/): 2014 Rural Housing Reporters 2013 Rural Housing Reporters 2012 Rural Housing Reporters 2011 Rural Housing Reporters
- [Rural Water/Sewer Programs](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-water-sewer-programs/): Many rural communities have severely limited access to a clean and affordable water supply and are considered to live in “water poverty.” Communities along the U.S./Mexico border — often called colonias — on Native American lands, and in the Appalachian region are at an especially high risk of water insecurity, as are communities with a high number of farm workers. USDA’s Rural Water/Sewer programs protect public health and promote community stabilization and development. Businesses and industries are reluctant and often unable to locate in areas without functioning water and sewer systems. But with the assistance of the U.S. Department of […]
- [Section 514/516 Farm Labor Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/section-514516-farm-labor-housing/): Section 514/516 is the only federal program that provides affordable loans and grants to purchase, construct, or repair housing for America’s farmworkers. Funds may also be used to install necessary facilities, including water and waste disposal systems. Agriculture is a driving force of the U.S. rural economy, and its sustainability depends on a steady supply of farmworkers. Without the assistance of Section 514/516 Farm Labor Housing, many farms are unable to attract the labor they need to be successful. Farmworkers have the worst housing needs of all rural people. More than 60 percent of the 3 million farmworkers in the […]
- [Protecting Rural CDBG and HOME](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/protecting-rural-cdbg-and-home/): By providing states and local governments with unique and flexible sources of financing, HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) and Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) help address the local housing and community development needs of its most vulnerable residents. Rural, suburban, and urban communities use CDBG and HOME funding to improve housing conditions and quality of life.
- [Defining "Rural"](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/defining-rural/): What is the “Rural” Definition? By January 15, 2014, USDA will revise its definition of “rural” with data from the 2010 Census. Unless Congress acts, 921 small towns and farming communities currently eligible for USDA Rural Development programs will be cut off from what is often their only source of federal housing funding. To be eligible after that time, these communities must fall under the original – and very restrictive – definition that arbitrarily excludes rural communities that happen to be located in metro areas.  According to USDA, however, fully half of all rural residents live in metro areas. In the […]
- [Investing In Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/investing-in-rural-housing-programs/)
- [2011 NRHC Budget Bulletins](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2011-nrhc-budget-bulletins/): Archived: 2011 Budget Bulletins
- ["Rural" Definition Impact](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/key-districts-impacted-by-the-rural-definition/): Check out NRHC’s list of key Congressional Targets here.
- [News & Publications](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/news-publications/): Publications December 2018 – Bob Rapoza’s presentation at the 2018 HAC Rural Housing Conference, “Meet the National Rural Housing Coalition” December 2012 – “Opening Doors to Rural Homeownership: Opportunities to Expand Homeownership, Build Wealth, and Strengthen Communities” and Fact Sheets. News Articles May 25, 2012 – NRHC’s Letter to the Editor regarding a Wall Street Journal article on USDA debt collection practices, and NRHC’s Letter to USDA Secretary Vilsack. June 16, 2011 – San Francisco Chronicle article on Self-Help Housing in California
- [Our Campaigns](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/take-action/): The NRHC works daily to promote and defend the principle that rural people have the right, regardless of income, to a decent place to live or an affordable home, clean drinking water, and basic community services. You can help us make a difference in the lives of America’s rural families. Become a NRHC Member.
- [About the Coalition](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/about-the-coalition/): NRHC works to promote and defend the principle that rural people have the right — regardless of income — to a decent, affordable place to live, clean drinking water, and basic community services.
- [FY 2013 Agriculture Appropriations](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-issues/fy-12-agriculture-appropriations/): Agriculture Appropriations – Selected Program by Fiscal Year ($in millions) RHS/RUS Programs FY12 Final FY13 President’s Request FY13 Senate FY13 House FY13 Final* 502 Single Family Direct  900 653  900  653  900 502 Single Family Guaranteed 24,000 24,000  24,000  24,000  24,000 504 Loans 10 28  28  10.2  28 504 Grants 29.5 28.2  29.5  17  29.5 514 Farm Labor Housing Loans 20.8 26  26  21  25.9 515 Rural Rental Housing 64.5 0  28.4  31.5  31.3 516 Farm Labor Housing Grants 7.1 9  9  7  8.84 521 Rural Rental Assistance 904 907  907  886.6  907 523 Self-Help TA 30 10  30  10 […]
- [Letters](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/letters/): April 1, 2011 – House Rural Housing Letter May 27, 2011 – Senate FY 12 Rural Housing Letter
- [Self-Help State Profiles](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/self-help-state-profiles/): SELF-HELP STATE PROFILES Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Florida Hawaii Idaho Kansas Louisiana Mississippi Montana North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania South Dakota Tennessee Utah Washington Texas New Mexico
- [2010 NRHC Budget Bulletins](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/2010-nrhc-budget-bulletins/): 2010 NRHC Budget Bulletins Budget Bulletins Volume 13, No. 36 to 45 Volume 13 Number 35: Final Letters Supporting Funding for USDA Rural Housing Programs Volume 13 Number 34: Senate Letter Supporting Funding for USDA Rural Housing Programs for FY 2011 Volume 13 Number 33: House Leaders Weigh In on Guarantee Program Volume 13 Number 32: Letter Supporting Funding for USDA Rural Housing Programs for FY 2011 Volume 13 Number 31: Self-Help Housing Forum Webcast Volume 13 Number 30: Signing on for Rural Housing
- [502 Success Paper](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-issues/502-success-paper/): Rural Housing Success Story: Section 502 Direct Loans The purpose of this paper is to describe the important benefits to rural households of the Section 502 Direct Loan for Home Ownership Program, discuss recent trends in appropriations, and suggest improvements to the program. Since its inception of the Section 502 program, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) has provided homeownership loans to almost two million families at an extremely low cost to the federal government.  The Section 502 direct loan program is the only federal program targeting homeownership opportunities exclusively to low- and very-low income rural households.  Eligibility is limited to […]
- [Section 515 Rural Rental Housing Loans](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/section-515-rural-rental-housing-loans/): SECTION 515 RURAL RENTAL HOUSING LOANS Background and Funding Overview The Need for Affordable Housing in Rural America There is a particular need for more affordable rental housing in rural America. Thirty-five percent of rural renters are cost-burdened paying more than 30% of their income for housing costs. Almost one million rural renter households suffer from multiple housing problems, 60% of whom pay more than 70% of their income for housing.  More than 900,000 renters live in moderately or severely inadequate housing and 1.9 million people are rent-overburdened., paying in excess of 30% of income for rent. The lead federal […]
- [Rural Water Sewer Systems](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-water-sewer-systems/): Financing for Rural Water Sewer Systems Many rural communities across America do not have access to clean drinking water and safe waste disposal systems. The EPA Clean Watersheds Needs Survey 2004 showed that small communities of fewer than 10,000 population have documented needs of $17 billion for wastewater systems. For these same communities, the need for drinking water facilities is significantly higher, totaling $59 billion. While small rural communities are home to less than 25 percent of the nation’s population they account for over 85 percent of the nation’s community water systems.  Communities of fewer than 10,000 residents are more […]
- [Rural Rental Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-rental-housing/): RURAL RENTAL HOUSING PRESERVATION Background and Funding Overview The Need to Preserve Section 515 Close to 400,000 low-income families and elderly households live in rental housing financed under Section 515.  For many rural areas, Section 515 provides the only decent, affordable rental housing in the community. While section 515 developments are an important source of rental housing in rural America,  the overall portfolio is aging with some 89 percent of the properties that are at least 10 years old, and 64 percent that are at least 15 years old.  Their major infrastructure systems are at or near obsolescence and need […]
- [Farm Labor Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/farm-labor-housing/): Section 514/516 Farm Labor Housing Programs Background and Funding Overview   Farmworker Housing Need There are approximately 3 million migrant and seasonal farmworkers in the United States. Farmworkers are the worst-housed of all rural people. According to the Economic Research Service, housing conditions for migrant and seasonal farmworkers have long been substandard and there has not been any improvement in recent years.  Farmworkers are also among the poorest of rural people. Sixty one percent of farmworkers earn incomes below the poverty line, and consequently three out of every five farmworker families live below the federal poverty line which is almost […]
- [Publications](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/publications/): Below find NRHC publications. NRHC Rural Housing: 2021 Impact Report NRHC Rural Housing: 2017 Impact Report NRHC Rural Housing: 2014 Impact Report Opening Doors to Homeownership (2014) NRHC Members in Action (2009) NRHC Members in Action (2008) NRHC Members in Action (2006) Opening Doors to Rural Homeownership (2003) NRHC Presentations
- [Testimony](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/testimony-2/): April 14, 2011 – National Rural Housing Coalition’ s Statement on Fiscal Year 2012 Administration Budget for the Rural Housing Service May 25, 2011 – Peter Carey Statement before the Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity
- [Helpful Links](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/helpful-links/): Fannie Mae Corporation Fannie Mae Foundation Federal Housing Finance Board Housing Assistance Council National Low Income Housing Coalition Rural Community Assistance Corporation Rural LISC PathStone Rural Policy Research Institute Self-Help Housing Hub United States Department of Agriculture USDA Rural Housing Service USDA Rural Information Center (RIC) United States Department of Housing and Urban Development
- [Contact Us](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/contact/): Please contact us to join the National Rural Housing Coalition, to donate, or to find out for more information about the  NRHC and how we advocate to improve quality of life and economic opportunity in rural America.
- [Members Area](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/members-area/): This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password:
- [Join NRHC](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/join-nrhc/): You can help us make a difference in the lives of America’s rural families. Become a member, stay connected, or make a donation TODAY!
- [Rural Housing](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/rural-housing-issues/): You can help us make a difference in the lives of America’s rural families.
- [Rapoza Associates](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/about/rapoza-associates/): Rapoza Associates Rapoza Associates is a public interest lobbying, policy analysis and government relations firm. The firm provides a range of services to its clients, including representation before Congress and federal agencies, and advising clients on federal policy and programs. The firm’s work also includes assisting clients with proposal preparation and assistance with writing applications for tax credit or grant programs. Our clients include many of the leading community development finance, housing and rural development, transportation and human services organizations and associations in America. Founded more than three decades ago, the firm is incorporated in the District of Columbia and […]
- [Members in Action: Fahe](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/about/coalition-highlights/): NRHC members work in rural communities around the country. In 2017 we will highlight the work of 12 of our member organizations through our Members in Action feature. This month we would like to recognize the work of Fahe.
- [Home](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/home/): Since 1969, the national voice for rural housing and community development programs.
- [Who We Are](https://ruralhousingcoalition.org/about/): In 1969 a group of concerned rural community activists, public officials, and non-profit developers formed the National Rural Housing Coalition (NRHC) to fight for better housing and community facilities for low-income rural people. Today, NRHC is still on the job in the nation’s capital promoting and defending the principle that rural people have the right, regardless of income, to a decent place to live or an affordable home, clean drinking water, and basic community services. NRHC’s Role – An Effective Advocate National Rural Housing Coalition works to focus policy makers on the needs of rural areas by direct advocacy and […]


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