USDA Rural Development Participats in National Homeownership Events in Columbus and Hendersonville

(Columbus, N.C., June 30, 2026) - Members of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development North Carolina team celebrated two family's milestone of the American Dream of homeownership when they cut ribbon and broke ground on two homes today.

The families partnered with Rural Development utilizing the Single-Family Housing Direct Home Loans program, also known as the Section 502 Direct Loan Program.

"National Homeownership Month is a reminder that the dream of owning a home should be within reach for every hardworking family, regardless of where they live," said USDA Rural Development North Carolina Single Family Housing Director William Kenney. "Today's celebrations in Columbus and Hendersonville highlights the life-changing impact of the Section 502 Direct Loan Program. By helping low- and very-low-income families secure safe, decent and affordable housing, USDA Rural Development is strengthening rural communities and creating opportunities for families to build equity, stability and a brighter future for generations to come."

The Section 502 Direct Loan Program assists low-and very-low-income applicants obtain decent, safe and sanitary housing in eligible rural areas by providing payment assistance to increase an applicant's repayment ability.

Members of the North Carolina Rural Development team are participating in events celebrating National Homeownership Month across the state in June.

USDA Rural Development provides loans, grants and technical assistance to support economic development, infrastructure, and quality-of-life improvements in rural communities across North Carolina and the nation.

To learn more about USDA Rural Development programs, visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/nc.

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