Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The U.S. Department of Agricultural Rural Development recently awarded $26,789 to Housing Opportunities of Warsaw, which in turn will use the funds to repair and preserve houses in Claypool.
The money, which comes in the form of a housing preservation grant, marks the first time in Claypool's history the town received money from the USDA Rural Development for rehabilitative assistance.
"This is a great program because it targets rural communities that don't have many options for funding," HOW Director Pamela Kennedy said. "The money (received) will be put towards fixing up various areas of Claypool houses, such as roofing, electrical systems and furnaces.
"We're very lucky to be receiving money after the recent natural disasters that took place."
John Young, Indiana Multi-Family Housing director, presented the grant check to Kennedy last week, and applauded her organization's recent efforts.
"I commend Housing Opportunities and the good neighbors of Claypool for having the foresight and vision to take action to assist in its housing needs," Young said.
The grant hopes to improve the quality of life in Claypool and support economic development in the area. Kennedy said the grant money will be used starting next year, but HOW will look into any request coming before January 2006.
"We'll be tight with this funding until we realize what we're dealing with," Kennedy said. "We don't ever want to lose a home, but we need to balance where and when we provide assistance."
