Non-profit Organizations, Tribal Governments and Public Agencies can Apply Through September 8, 2026
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development is accepting applications now through September 8, 2026, for the Housing Preservation Grants Program.
The Housing Preservation Grants Program awards qualified organizations with funding to repair or rehabilitate homes, rental properties, or co-ops occupied by low- and very-low-income residents in rural areas. Eligible applicants include government entities, federally recognized Indian Tribes, non-profit organizations, and faith-based organizations.
“The Housing Preservation Grants program makes it more affordable for families, seniors and individuals with disabilities to remain in their homes with the accessibility and security that is needed so they can live independently,” said USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson. “These investments support local organizations that are strengthening communities across rural Wisconsin while helping people meet basic housing needs.”
The Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity is just one example of the many rural Wisconsin organizations using funding through the Housing Preservation Grants Program to help homeowners.
“Housing Preservation Grants are often the bridge that allows organizations like Habitat for Humanity to help homeowners facing critical repair needs that would otherwise go unmet,” said Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity Vice President of Philanthropy and Donor Relations Amy McGowan. “For many rural residents, there simply are not other resources available to address urgent health, safety, or accessibility concerns. This program makes it possible for organizations like Habitat to provide repairs that improve safety, accessibility, and overall quality of life. These investments do more than repair homes. They help families remain stable, preserve existing housing stock, and strengthen the communities we serve.”
Housing Preservation Grants can assist low-income homeowners with making essential health and safety updates to their homes, which include:
- Insulation and combination storm windows and doors
- Repair or replacement of the roof
- Replacement of severely deteriorated siding, porches or stoops
- Installation or extension of plumbing, mechanical or electrical systems of existing units
- Alterations of the unit interior or exterior to provide greater accessibility for any handicapped family member
- Other components described as eligible assistance activities in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1944.664
For questions or for assistance with applications, please email USDA Rural Development Wisconsin Acting Housing Director Jill Lindholm at: [email protected]. Additional information on the Housing Preservation Grants Program is available online.
For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making investment data accessible to the public.
Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov/wi
Date posted: August 24, 2026