Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development New York State Director Richard Mayfield kicked off National Homeownership Month by highlighting Rural Development’s commitment to expanding access to affordable housing and helping more Americans, especially first-time homebuyers, achieve the dream of homeownership.
“The Trump Administration and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins are focused on growing first time homeownership, making home borrowing more accessible by cutting barriers, helping families build equity and long-term financial security,” said USDA Rural Development Acting Under Secretary Todd Lindsey. “USDA Rural Development is playing a key role by delivering real solutions for rural communities across the country.”
Homeownership remains one of the most effective ways for families to build wealth and strengthen their financial future. Throughout the month, USDA is showcasing programs that make it easier for individuals and families to buy, build, or repair homes in rural areas.
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“Homeownership is a cornerstone of stability and opportunity in our rural communities,” said Richard Mayfield, USDA Rural Development New York State Director. “When families are able to put down roots, it strengthens local economies, supports small businesses, and builds the long‑term prosperity that keeps rural New York thriving.”
USDA Rural Development single-family housing programs
USDA Rural Development’s single-family housing programs are designed to support first-time homebuyers, working families, and those looking to invest in their communities. These programs include:
- The Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program enables USDA to partner with private lending institutions, backing their loans to help families and individuals buy homes in rural areas.
- The Home Repair Loan and Grant Program provides loans and grants to help families and individuals repair their homes to make them safer, healthier places to live.
- The Mutual Self-Help Housing Grant Program provides grants to qualified organizations to help them carry out local self-help housing construction projects.
- The Single Family Housing Direct Home Loan Program provides loans directly to families and individuals so they can buy or build homes in rural America.
Support for rural communities in New York
USDA is also working closely with lenders, builders, and community partners to streamline processes, reduce regulatory burdens, and expand awareness of available programs. Throughout National Homeownership Month, the New York Rural Development team will host events to connect rural Americans with resources and opportunities that make homeownership more attainable. State Director Mayfield and the housing program staff will visit with program participants as well as engage in several in-person and virtual roundtables taking place across the state.
Rural Development programs support not only housing, but also the broader economic foundation of rural America by investing in infrastructure, community facilities, and local economies to ensure rural communities remain strong, self-sufficient, and positioned for long-term growth.
