Elizabeth and Doris Jones are a mother and daughter living in Penns Grove, New Jersey. Elizabeth is 89 and Doris is 70. They both lived in separate one bedroom apartment units for almost 30 years. Now, thanks to USDA’s Direct Home Loan Program, they have their own house with a yard.
Doris told me years ago she had a dream of becoming a homeowner, but her father became ill and the idea was put on hold. A visit by one of her relatives made her think about that dream from years ago. They had been talking about a place to call their own when USDA Rural Development was mentioned. This relative said USDA had a housing program which made homeownership affordable for eligible applicants with limited incomes. Doris contacted our Woodstown office to learn more about the Direct Housing Program. Area Specialist Sal Bronti immediately started the application process. Bronti worked diligently with both the applicants and their real estate agent. Finally the applicants found the perfect home and settlement took place in May.
“It is a pleasure to help residents here in New Jersey realize their dream of homeownership,” said Howard Henderson USDA Rural Development State Director.
Under Rural Development’s housing program Elizabeth and Doris pay less than $100 more a month including taxes and insurance. Their home has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and full basement. The backyard is spacious enough for a garden and entertaining their family and friends. Remember dreams do come true.
![USDA Rural Development State Director Howard Henderson celebrating homeownership month with Elizabeth (left) and her daughter Doris Jones (right) in their new home. USDA Rural Development State Director Howard Henderson celebrating homeownership month with Elizabeth (left) and her daughter Doris Jones (right) in their new home.](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4748735907_39109e3ea7.jpg)