2017 Iowa Hunger Directory 2017 Edition | Page 558

USDA - Rural Development in Iowa DESCRIPTION CONTACT NAME Bill Menner EMAIL bill.menner@ia.usda.gov PHONE 515-284-4663 OFFICE ADDRESS 210 Walnut Street, Room 873 Des Moines, IA 50309 TYPE OF WORK Government Agency USDA Rural Development in Iowa partners with Federal, State, Tribal, and local organizations to improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. USDA Rural Development operates over fifty financial assistance programs for a variety of rural applications. They:  offer loans, grants and loan guarantees to support essential services such as housing, economic development, health care, first responder services and equipment, and water, electric and communications infrastructure.  promote economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks, credit unions and community-managed lending pools.  offer technical assistance and information to help agricultural producers and cooperatives get started and improve the effectiveness of their operations.  provide technical assistance to help communities undertake community empowerment programs.  help rural residents buy or rent safe, affordable housing and make health and safety repairs to their homes. COUNTIES Activities Statewide HOW TO HELP USDA Rural Development has a state office and ten area offices in Iowa. Explore their programs online and contact them directly to explore opportunities to get involved in ending hunger and improving rural communities. Page | 557