Agriculture Secretary Sonny
Perdue says the Department of Agriculture assisted more than seven million
rural Americans during the 2017 fiscal year. Perdue says USDA invested in
nearly 400 projects that provided “essential services” that “help communities
significantly improve their schools, hospitals and public safety facilities,
and improve the quality of life.” USDA infused $1.5 billion into rural areas in
2017 through the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program for projects such as
schools, libraries, municipal centers, first responder vehicles and equipment,
social service buildings, recreational activities and other community needs.
The agency says USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand
economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. The assistance supports
infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community services
such as schools, public safety and health care, and high-speed internet access
in rural areas.