Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management is informing residents about the USDA Home Repair Program, a resource designed to help low-income seniors following the recent storm damage. This federal program provides grants and low-interest loans to qualifying homeowners for essential repairs, including emergency tree removal, roof and structural improvements, electrical repairs, and accessibility upgrades.
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program
As part of USDA Rural Development’s commitment to supporting rural homeowners, the Section 504 Home Repair Program offers financial assistance to help very low-income seniors (62 or older) address critical safety concerns following recent storm damage. This applies to rural areas with populations less than 20,000 people within Greene County or areas up to 35,000 population that were “rural” before October 1, 1990, which does not include homes in Springfield city limits. Homeowners can check address eligibility using USDA’s online map.
Grant Option
• Who Qualifies: Homeowners aged 62 or older, living in their home, with household income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and unable to repay a loan.
• Grant Amount: Up to $10,000 (no repayment required unless the home is sold within 3 years).
• Covered Repairs: Includes emergency tree removal, roof and structural repairs, electrical fixes, and safety improvements for accessibility.
Loan Option
• For those who don’t qualify for the grant, low-interest loans of up to $40,000 are available at 1% interest over 20 years.
• This provides a flexible alternative for home repairs for those ineligible for the grant.
How to Apply
• Submit forms and proof of income. USDA will inspect the home, and if approved, issue a “Notice to Proceed” before work begins. Payments are made directly to the contractor after a final inspection.
For more information or questions, contact USDA Rural Development or visit their website to determine eligibility and begin the application process:
Mike Elmore, Single Family Housing Area Specialist – West Plains Office
(417) 596-3020
Kyrie Windsor, Single Family Housing Area Specialist – Springfield Office
(417) 520-7413