(USDA) — Herman and Susana Aldan are an elderly couple who live on Tinian.
The couple support themselves with only a small pension from the local government.
The Aldans needed to make improvements to their home to make it more accessible for Herman Aldan, whose mobility is limited to a wheelchair.
Additionally, other repairs and improvements were needed to remove safety and health hazards in their 20-year-old home.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development offers many programs for very low-income rural homeowners.
One of which is the Section 504 Rural Housing Loan and Grant Program.
Home improvement and repair loans and grants are offered to qualified homeowners to remove health and safety hazards from their homes, and also to make their homes accessible for those with disabilities.
For people 62 years old or older, and who are unable to repay a loan, grants may be available.
According to Lorraine P. Shin, USDA Rural Development Hawaii state director, “The delivery of the housing programs in the Western Pacific is consistent with USDA Rural Development’s commitment to improving the quality of life for low-income persons in rural areas — one homeowner, one rural community at a time.”
The Aldans contacted the Saipan office of USDA Rural Development and applied for a grant.
A $7,454 Section 504 Rural Housing grant was approved for the Aldans to help pay for the much needed home repairs.
Improvements to the home included new windows, the installation of roof and floor tiles and the widening of door jams to accommodate Mr. Aldan’s wheelchair.
Due to these enhancements, and the installation of a small door ramp, Mr. Aldan has gained more independence and is finally able to move freely and easily around his home.
Mr. and Mrs. Aldan can now enjoy their retirement in a comfortable and safe living environment.
USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in rural communities.
As a venture capital entity, Rural Development has invested over $72 billion since the beginning of the Bush administration.
These investments provide equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure.
Over 1.2 million jobs have been created or saved through these investments.
Further information is available at a local USDA Rural Development Office or by visiting USDA’s Web site at hwww.rurdev.usda.gov.
You may also contact Don Étés at 236-0875 or at donald.etes@pb.usda.gov.