The not-for-profit North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC) has been awarded a $149,343 federal grant to repair homes in nine Missouri counties.

Announcement of the Housing Preservation Grant was made Oct. 20 by President Donald Trump and U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Missouri State Director Jeff Case.

“Having a home to call your own is the ultimate American dream to many in our country,” Case said. “However, for lower-income rural residents, the affordability of maintaining a home and making needed repairs can often be a challenge. By partnering with affordable housing agencies, USDA Rural Development helps fill that gap with its Housing Preservation Grant program, ensuring some of our most vulnerable residents have the means necessary to make health and safety improvements to their homes.”

“NECAC is a proven leader in home ownership and rehabilitation, and we welcome these additional dollars that will be used to repair and extend the life of homes in our region,” said NECAC President and Chief Executive Officer Don Patrick. “This funding is important because it provides families and individuals with better houses in which to live.”

The work includes roof repairs and replacement, disabled accessibility, siding, minor plumbing and electrical work, and heating system repairs or replacements. NECAC can spend up to $6,500 per home.

For more information, call the NECAC Montgomery County Service Center,137 Farnen in Montgomery City, at 573-564-3606. People may also call the NECAC Housing Development Department at 573-324-6622.