The mission of RuralBusiness.com is to prove meaningful content for all those involved in the essential work of building rural economies. As we look ahead to the new year and determine the best way to deliver on that mission, we need your input. Please take a few minutes to complete our reader survey. Your answers will help us know what topics to focus on and how we can make … [Read more...]
The Cash Conundrum: How to Make the Most of Government Funding in Rural Communities
The lack of resources — despite billions of dollars available to help — is a familiar paradox for many rural communities. Federal funds have flowed to rural areas since the start of the pandemic, thanks to the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The funding was earmarked to address needs exacerbated by the … [Read more...]
Episode 45: Rural Strategies for Utilizing Federal Funding
The American Rescue Plan set aside $7.5 Billion in relief funds for rural healthcare providers. Even as the money was made available, however, many towns across the U.S. were rejecting this and other Federal Relief Funds, "because they couldn’t think of a way to spend it." Others knew how they wanted to spend it, but had to give it back because they didn't have the resources … [Read more...]
Housing Development Alliance: Building a Home for the Future of East Kentucky
Homeownership can help break the cycle of poverty, but for many families, it’s just out of reach. In Perry County, Kentucky, where the poverty rate is near twice the national average, a nonprofit called the Housing Development Alliance has set out to close the gap. “We know people all the time succeed in life without affordable housing, but it’s a lot easier to get a job, … [Read more...]
Episode 44: Housing Development Alliance
Scott McReynolds is the executive director of the Housing Development Alliance (HDA) in Hazard, Ky. The HDA’s programs have helped more than 2,900 low-income people in rural southeastern Kentucky become new homeowners, make home-improving repairs, and break free of debt. The organization builds homes, provides housing counseling to prepare people for homeownership, offers … [Read more...]