Rural communities in eight states and Puerto Rico are getting a federal assist with immediate needs and in creating continuing economic development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported recently.

Rural and Tribal communities in the Rural Partners Network (RPN) are receiving grants and loans through the USDA to help people "access good-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, affordable housing and quality health care," the agency states in its May 22 news release. 

Approximately $394 million will be awarded by the USDA to support RPN communities' plans to strengthen their local economies, according to the release. The funding is going to 52 projects in Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia and Puerto Rico; some projects also will benefit people outside RPN communities in Alabama, Florida and Texas, the release reports.

USDA Sec. Tom Vilsack | U.S. Department of Agriculture/Wikimedia Commons

In the West, Tribal communities will receive support to enhance water and wastewater services while also introducing renewable energy sources such as solar power to their lands and farms. In the South, projects will focus on increasing access to fresh food in impoverished areas and utilizing smart-grid technologies to connect thousands to power through electric cooperatives. Portions of Appalachia will benefit from new investments in clean water, expanded health care services and safe, affordable housing.

RPN, launched in April 2022 and expanded this past November, now is active in 36 community networks in 10 states and Puerto Rico, according to the news release. USDA staff live and work in local communities to provide technical assistance according to the community's needs, including navigating federal programs and preparing successful funding and grant applications.

“Through Rural Partners Network," USDA Sec. Tom Vilsack said in the news release, "USDA staff is on the ground listening to those many different voices in rural America and responding with funding and resources that will help people in small towns, rural places and on Tribal lands build stronger communities and brighter futures.”