COLUMBIA, S.C. — The United States Department of Agriculture announced an investment of $86 million nationwide to improve equitable access to jobs, business opportunities, education, housing and health care for those who live and work in rural communities. Across the United States, the funds will help more than 425,000 people in 46 states, Puerto Rico and the Western Pacific.
In South Carolina, a total of $939,280 went to organizations throughout the state.
USDA Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI)
RCDI grants are awarded to help non-profit housing and community development organizations, low-income rural communities and federally recognized tribes support housing, community facilities and community and economic development projects in rural areas.
- South Carolina Association for Community Economic Development, $244,575 (Rep. Nancy Mace)
- Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project, Inc, $164,999 (Rep. Ralph Norman)
Housing Preservation Grants
The Housing Preservation program restructures loans for existing Rural Rental Housing and Off-Farm Labor Housing projects to help improve and preserve the availability of safe affordable rental housing for low income residents.
- Horry County Government Community Development, $163,418 (Rep. Tom Rice)
- Town of Cheraw, $163,418 (Rep. Tom Rice)
Socially Disadvantaged Group Grants
The primary objective of the Socially Disadvantaged Groups Grant program is to provide technical assistance to socially-disadvantaged groups through cooperatives and Cooperative Development Centers.
- United Farmers USA, $50,311 (Rep. Jim Clyburn)
- Gullah Farmers Cooperative Association, $152,559 (Rep. Nancy Mace)
