received by Oklahoma; a $117,810 grant was received by South Dakota; a $278,530 grant was received by Texas; a $21,430 grant was received by Utah; a $42,220 grant was received by Washington; a $208,360 grant was received by Wisconsin; and a $40,690 grant was received by Wyoming.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PROPOSALS:

Certification by the Administrator, FSA, that mediation program meets the requirements of Section 501 (c) of Title V of the Agricultural Credit Act (Public Law 100-233) as amended; application meets requirements of FSA regulations to be implemented.

10.437 INTEREST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

FEDERAL AGENCY:

FARM SERVICE AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AUTHORIZATION:

Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, as amended. OBJECTIVES:

To provide a 4 percent subsidy to farmers and ranchers, who do not qualify for standard commercial credit. Guaranteed loans are serviced by a lender who has entered into a Lenders Agreement with the agency. TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

Guaranteed/Insured Loans.

USES AND USE RESTRICTIONS:

The Interest Assistance Program can be provided for Operating Loans (OL). Under the interest assistance program, FSA will subsidize 4 percent of the interest rate on loans to qualifying borrowers. Operating Loans (OL) may be used: (1) to finance livestock or farm equipment; (2) to pay annual operating expenses or family living expenses; or (3) to refinance debts under certain conditions. Lines of Credit (LOC) are operating loans for annual operating loan purposes. Funds may be advanced and repaid (revolve) throughout the year. The total loan limit for a guaranteed loan cannot exceed $731,000. Applicant Eligibility:

Individuals, partnerships, or joint operations, legal resident aliens, corporations and cooperatives that meet the eligibility requirements for a guaranteed loan and are able to project the required cash flow margins with the aid of interest assistance.

Beneficiary Eligibility:

This program aids both the borrower and lender by providing 4 percent of the interest costs and receiving up to a 90 percent guarantee on the loan. Credentials/Documentation:

None. This program is excluded from coverage under OMB Circular No. A-87. Preapplication Coordination:

None. This program is excluded from coverage under E.O. 12372 and OMB Circular No. A-102.

Application Procedure:

The lender must submit to the agency on behalf of the applicant, all required forms to the FSA county office, where the proposed operation will be located. Contact the lender in your area for completion of all required forms. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the FSA office in your local area. Farm Service Agency offices are listed in the telephone directory under U.S. Government, Department of Agriculture.

Award Procedure:

Not applicable.

Deadlines:

None.

Range of Approval/Disapproval Time:

One to 30 days.

Appeals:

At the time of any rejection FSA will notify the lender and loan applicant of appeal rights and procedures.

Renewals:

None.

Formula and Matching Requirements:

Not applicable.

Length and Time Phasing of Assistance:

Interest Assistance agreements will be granted for a term not to exceed 10 years from the date the first agreement was signed.

Reports:

The lender is required to file Form FSA 1980-24 annually. This form will reflect current loan information, request a claim payment and establish the amount of interest assistance for the next year.

Audits:

FSA will review Form FSA 1980-24 annually. In addition, FSA will require a loan activity summary and calculation of interest charges.

Records:

The type of records required will be on a case-by-case basis.

Account Identification:

12-4140-0-3-351; 12-1140-0-1-351.

Obligations:

(Subsidized Guaranteed Loans) FY 07 $272,250,000; FY 08 est not available; and FY 09 est not reported.

Range and Average of Financial Assistance:

$1 to $731,000. Average: $158,000.

PROGRAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

Not available.

REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND LITERATURE:

Regulations published at 54 FR 1534, codified in 7 CFR Part 762 and FSA Handbook 2 FLP.

Regional or Local Office:

Farm Service Agency State Offices can inform applicants of county office locations where applicants may apply for assistance. FSA State Office locations are listed in Appendix IV of the Catalog. Or visit the website at: http://www.fsa.usda.gov. FSA has more than 2,500 county offices serving

every rural county in the United States.

Headquarters Office:

Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, Director, Loan Making Division, Ag Box 0522, Washington, DC 20250. Telephone: (202) 720-1632. Web Site Address:

http://www.fsa.usda.gov.

RELATED PROGRAMS:

None.

EXAMPLES OF FUNDED PROJECTS:

None.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PROPOSALS:

Each loan application will be judged on its own merit and processed in chronological order.

10.438 SECTION 538 RURAL RENTAL HOUSING GUARANTEED LOANS

FEDERAL AGENCY:

RURAL DEVELOPMENT, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AUTHORIZATION:

Housing Act of 1949, as amended, Section 538, Public Law 106-569, 42 U.S.C. 1490p-2.

OBJECTIVES:

This program has been designed to increase the supply of affordable multifamily housing in rural areas through partnerships between Rural Development and major lending sources, as well as State and local housing finance agencies and bond insurers. The program provides Federal credit enhancement to encourage private and public lenders to make new loans for affordable rental properties that meet program standards.

TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

Guaranteed/Insured Loans.

USES AND USE RESTRICTIONS:

The guarantee will encourage the construction of new rural rental housing and appropriate related facilities. Housing as a general rule will consist of projects with five or more dwellings. The guarantee may not be made for nursing, special care or industrial type housing. Applicant Eligibility:

The applicant in this program is the lender. The lender must be approved and currently active with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD/FHA insurance programs, Ginnie Mae or be a State or local Housing Finance Agency. A member of the Federal Home Loan Bank System or other lender may be able to participate if they can demonstrate satisfactory experience with multifamily lending. Beneficiary Eligibility:

Occupants must be families or persons with income not in excess of 115 percent of the Median Income at the time of initial occupancy. Credentials/Documentation:

Eligible borrowers include: individual partnerships; profit and not-for-profit corporations; limited liability companies; trusts; State and local agencies; and Indian Tribes.

National Appeals Division.

Renewals:

None.

Formula and Matching Requirements:

None.

Length and Time Phasing of Assistance:

Not applicable.

Reports:

Per program requirements.

Audits:

As required by the lender and program regulations..

Records:

Good business records and any records required by the lender.

Account Identification:

12-0137-0-1-604.

Obligations:

(Loans) FY 07 $197,997,000; FY 08 est not available; and FY 09 est not reported.

Range and Average of Financial Assistance:

Not applicable.

PROGRAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

Not available.

REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND LITERATURE:

The final rule, 7 CFR 3565, was effective January 19, 2005. Also available in the Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program Origination and Servicing Handbook.

Regional or Local Office:

Consult your local telephone directory for Rural Development field office number. If no listing, get in touch with appropriate Rural Development State office listed in Appendix IV of the Catalog or on the internet at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Headquarters Office:

Director, Multi-Family Housing Processing Division, Rural Development, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Telephone (202) 720-1604. Use the same number for FTS.

Web Site Address:

http.//www.rurdev.usda.gov.

RELATED PROGRAMS:

None.

EXAMPLES OF FUNDED PROJECTS:

Not applicable.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PROPOSALS:

Provided in the NOFA.

10.441 TECHNICAL AND SUPERVISORY ASSISTANCE GRANTS

FEDERAL AGENCY:

RURAL HOUSING SERVICE (RHS), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AUTHORIZATION:

Housing Act of 1949, Section 525(a), 42 U.S.C. 1490(e)(a). OBJECTIVES:

To assist low-income rural families in obtaining adequate housing to meet their family's needs and/or to provide the necessary guidance to promote their continued occupancy of already adequate housing. These objectives will be accomplished through the establishment or support of housing delivery and counseling projects run by eligible applicants. TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

Project Grants.

USES AND USE RESTRICTIONS:

Grant purposes: Grant funds are to be used for a housing delivery system and counseling program to include a comprehensive program of technical and supervisory assistance as set forth in the grant agreement and any other special conditions as required by RHS. Uses of grant funds may include, but are not limited to: (a) The development and implementation of a program of technical and supervisory assistance as defined in RD Instruction 1944-K, 1944.506(h) and (i); (b) payment of reasonable salaries of professional, technical, and clerical staff actively assisting in the delivery of the TSA project; (c) payment of necessary and reasonable office expenses such as office supplies and office rental, office utilities, telephone services, and office equipment rental; (d) payment of necessary and reasonable administrative costs such as workers' compensation, liability insurance, audit reports, travel to and attendance at RD approved training sessions, and the employer's share of Social Security and health benefits. Payments to private retirement funds are prohibited unless prior written authorization is obtained from the Administrator; (e) payment of reasonable fees for necessary training of grantee personnel. This may include the cost of travel and per diem to attend regional training sessions when authorized by the State Director; and (f) other reasonable travel and miscellaneous expenses necessary to accomplish the objectives of the specific TSA grant which were anticipated in the individual TSA grant proposal and which were included as eligible expenses at the time of grant approval. Ineligible

activities: Grant funds may not be used for: (1) Acquisition construction, repair, or rehabilitation of structures or acquisition of land, vehicles, or equipment; (2) replacement of or substitution for any financial support which would be available from any other source; (3) duplication of current services in conflict with the requirements of RD Instruction 1944-k, 1944.514(c); (4) hiring personnel to perform construction; (5) buying property of any kind from families receiving technical or supervisory assistance from the grantee under the terms of the TSA grant; (6) paying for or reimbursing the grantee for any expenses or debts incurred before RHS/RD executes the grant agreement; (7) paying any debts, expenses or costs which should be the responsibilities of the individual families receiving technical and supervisory assistance; (8) any type of political activities, and (9) other costs including contributions and donations, entertainment, fines and penalties, interest and other financial costs, legislative expenses and any excess of cost from other grant agreements. Advice and assistance may be obtained from the national office where ineligible costs are proposed as part of the TSA project or where a proposed cost appears ineligible. The grantee may not change fees or accept compensation or gratuities from TSA recipients for the grantee's assistance under the program.

Applicant Eligibility:

Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grants may be made to public or private nonprofit corporations, agencies, institutions, organizations, Indian Tribes, and other associations. Listed below are a description and definition of eligible applicants: 1. Sponsored organization - A public purpose group other than a unit of government that is a beneficiary under a plan or program administered by a State, or political subdivision of a State or local government, and which is subject to approval by a Federal agency. Usually organized to work for a specific purpose. Examples: Community development agencies, model cities, and community action agencies; 2. public nonprofit institution/organization - A public owned agency or organization established to perform specialized functions or services for the benefit of all or part of the general public either without charge or at cost, making no profits and having no shareholders or receive dividends, includes institutions of higher education and hospitals. 3. Federally Recognized Indian Tribal Government - the governing body or a governmental agency of an Indian tribe, nation, pueblo, or other organized group or community (including native village as defined in the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act) certified by the Secretary of the Interior as eligible for the special programs and services provided through the Bureau of Indian Affairs; and 4. private nonprofit institution/organization - privately owned organization or institution which represent community service networks, public information, technical assistance, and public education. Operated exclusively for charitable, scientific, literary or educational purposes such that no part of its earnings is for the benefit of any private shareholder or individual, includes private institutions of higher education and hospitals. Examples: Girl Scouts, American Civil Liberties Union.

Beneficiary Eligibility:

Eligible beneficiaries must be low-income, individual/family and rural sponsored organizations.

Credentials/Documentation:

Have the financial, legal, administrative, and operational capacity to assume and carry out the responsibilities that meet this requirement of actual capacity, it must either: (a) Have necessary background and experience with proven ability to perform responsibly in the field of low-income rural housing development and counseling, or other business management or administrative experience which indicated an ability to provide responsible technical and supervisory assistance; or (b) be assisted by an organization which has such background experience and ability and which agrees in writing that it will provide, without charge, the assistance the applicant will need to carry out its responsibilities; (c) legally obligate itself to administer TSA funds, provide an adequate accounting of the expenditure of such funds, and comply with the grant agreement and RHS regulations; (d) demonstrate an understanding of the needs of low-income rural families; (e) have the ability and willingness to work within established guidelines; and (f) if the applicant is engaged in or plans to become engaged in any other activities, it must be able to provide sufficient evidence and documentation that it has adequate resources, including financial resources, to carry on any other programs or activities to which it is committed without jeopardizing the success and effectiveness of its TSA project. Preapplication Coordination:

Application Submission: (a) Upon notification that the applicant has been tentatively selected for funding, the State office will forward to the applicant a signed Form AD-622 and provide SF 424.1 with instructions to the applicant for preparation of an application; (b) upon receipt of Form AD-622, the applicant will submit an application, an original and two copies on Form SF 424.1, and provide whatever additional information is requested to the Field office within 30 days; and (c) upon receipt of an application on SF 42.1 by the Field office, a docket shall be assembled which will include the following: (1) Form SF 424.1 and the information submitted in accordance with RD Instruction 1944-k, 1944.526(a) (2); (2) Form AD-622; (3) any comments received in accordance with 7 CFR part 3015 subpart V, "Intergovernmental Review of Department of Agriculture Programs and Activities." See RD Instruction 1940-J, available in any RD office; (4) SF 424.1; (5) OGC legal administration made pursuant to RD

Instruction 1944-K, 1944.526(c) (3); (6) grant agreement; (7) Form RD 1940-1, "Request for Obligation of Funds;" (8) Form RD 400-1, "Equal Opportunity Agreement;" (9) Form RD 400-4, "Assurance Agreement;" (10) Form RD 194020, "Request for Environmental Information;" (11) Form RD 1940- 22, "Environmental Checklist for Categorical Exclusions," Form RD 1940-21, "Environmental Assessment for Class I Actions" or exhibit H, subpart G of Part 1940 entitled, Environmental Assessment for Class II Actions; (12) the historical and archaeological assessment; and (13) the detailed budget for the agreement period based upon the needs outlined in the proposal and the comments and recommendations by RD. This program is excluded from coverage under E.O.

12372.

Application Procedure:

Not applicable.

Award Procedure:

Award is made by the Rural Development State Director.

Deadlines:

Contact the State office for application deadlines.

Range of Approval/Disapproval Time:

From 60 to 90 days.

Appeals:

Appeal rights are available under Rural Development's Instruction 1900 Subpart B.

Renewals:

Not applicable.

Formula and Matching Requirements:

Not applicable.

Length and Time Phasing of Assistance:

Assistance is normally for one to two years. Requesting TSA checks: (a) The initial TSA check may cover the applicant's needs for the first calendar month. If the first calendar month is a partial month, the check will cover the needs for the partial month and the next whole month. (b) the initial advance of TSA grant funds may not be requested simultaneously with the request for obligation of TSA grant funds. The initial advance must be requested on Form RD 440-57 in accordance with the FMI after it has been received from the Finance Office indicating that funds have been obligated; and (c) all advances will be requested only after receipt of Standard Form 279 from the grantee. The amount requested must be in accordance with the detailed budget, including amendments, as approved by RHCDS. Standard Form 270 will not be submitted more frequently than once every 30 days. In no case will additional funds be advanced if the grantee fails to submit required reports or is in violation of the grant agreement. Reports:

Grant Evaluation, Closeout, Suspension, and Termination: (a) Grant evaluation will be an ongoing activity performed by both the grantee and RHS. The grantee will perform self-evaluations by preparing periodic project performance reports in accordance with 1944.541. RHS will also review all reports prepared and submitted by the grantee in accordance with the grant agreement and this part. Audits:

Within 45 days after the grant ending date, the grantee will complete closeout procedures as specified in the grant agreement. Records:

Grantees are required to maintain financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other records pertinent to the grant for a period of at least 3 years after the submission of the final Project Performance report. Account Identification:

12-2009-0-1-604.

Obligations:

(Grants) FY 07 $1,000,000; FY 08 $0; and FY 09 est not available. Range and Average of Financial Assistance:

Not applicable.

PROGRAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

Not applicable.

REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND LITERATURE:

7 CFR 1944 Subpart K.

Regional or Local Office:

Contact the appropriate Rural Development State office listed in Appendix IV of the Catalog or on the internet at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/recd_map.html. Headquarters Office:

USDA, Rural Development, Housing Programs, 14th Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250. Telephone: (202) 720-1474. FTS is not available.

Web Site Address:

http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

RELATED PROGRAMS:

None.

EXAMPLES OF FUNDED PROJECTS:

Not applicable.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PROPOSALS:

Proposals must provide a program of supervisory assistance as defined in 7 CFR 1944.506(h) and they must serve areas with a concentration of substandard housing and low-income and low-income minority households. In addition, the proposals will be scored on the following criteria: (1) The extent to which the

program serves areas with concentrations of Rural Development single family housing loan borrowers who are delinquent in their housing loan payments and/or threatened with foreclosure. (2) The capability and past performance demonstrated by the applicant in administering its programs, the effectiveness of current efforts by the applicant to assist low-income and low-income minority families in obtaining adequate housing, the adequacy of records and practices (including personnel procedures and practices) that will be established and maintained by the applicant during the term of the agreement. (3) The narrative presentation of the applicant's proposed TSA program. (4) The extent to which the program will provide or increase the delivery of housing resources to lowincome and low-income minority families who are not currently occupying adequate housing in the areas. (5) The extent to which the program will make use of other financial and contribution-in-kind resources for both technical and supervisory assistance and housing development and supporting facilities. (6) The extent to which the project will be cost effective. (7) The extent to which the program is effective in providing expected benefits to low-income families. (8) The narrative statement is based on need. (9) The services of the applicant will provide are not presently available in the proposed service area to assist lowincome families in obtaining or maintaining occupancy of adequate housing and the extent of duplication of technical and supervisory assistance activities currently provided for low-income families. (10) The extent of citizen and local government participation and involvement in the development of the preapplication and project and coordination with other Federal, State or local technical andor supervisory assistance programs.

10.442 HOUSING APPLICATION PACKAGING GRANTS (Section 509 Grants)

FEDERAL AGENCY:

RURAL DEVELOPMENT, RURAL HOUSING PROGRAMS (RHS), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

AUTHORIZATION:

Housing Act of 1949, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 1479. OBJECTIVES:

To package single family housing applications for very low- and low-income rural residents in colonias and designated counties who wish to buy, build, or repair houses for their own use and to package multi-family housing applications for organizations wishing to develop rental units for lower income families to construct new rental housing compelxes or to repair and rehabilitate existing units.

TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

Project Grants.

USES AND USE RESTRICTIONS:

Grants reimburse eligible organizations for part or all of the costs of conducting, administering, and coordinating an effective housing application packaging program in colonias and designated counties. Eligible organizations aid very low- and low-income individuals and families in obtaining benefit from Federal, State, and local housing programs. The following are restrictions under the housing application packaging grants: (1) These funds are available only in the areas defined in Exhibit D of RD Instruction 1944-B; (2) the packager may not charge fees or accept compensation or gratuities directly or indirectly from the very low- and low-income families being assisted under this program; (3) the packager may not represent or be associated with anyone else, other than the applicant, who may benefit in any way in the proposed transaction; (4) if the packager is compensated for this service from other sources, then the packager is not eligible for compensation from this source except as permitted by RHS; (5) grantees who are funded to do self-help housing effort; and (6) the authorized representatives must have no pecuniary interest in the award of the architectural or construction contracts, the purchase of equipment, or the purchase of the land for the housing site.

Applicant Eligibility:

An eligible grantee is an organization which is defined as any of the following entities which are legally authorized to work in designated counties and/or colonias and are: (1) A State, State agency, or unit of general local government; or (2) a private nonprofit organization or corporation that is owned and controlled by private persons or interests, is organized and operated for purposes other than making gains or profits for the corporation, and is legally precluded from distributing any gains or profits to its member. Beneficiary Eligibility:

The targeted groups are nonprofit organizations who will serve very low- and low-income families without adequate housing in the colonias and designated counties.

Credentials/Documentation:

(1) Have the financial, legal, and administrative capacity to carry out the responsibilities of packaging housing applications for very low- and low-income applicants. To meet this requirement it must have the necessary background and experience with proven ability to perform responsibly in the field of housing application packaging, low-income housing development, or other business or administrative ventures which indicate an ability to perform responsibility in this

field of housing application packaging. (2) legally obligate itself to administer grant funds, provide adequate account of the expenditure of such funds, and comply with RHS regulations; (3) if the organization is a private nonprofit corporation: (a) is organized under State and local laws. (b) is qualified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. (c) has as one of its purposes assisting very-low- and low-income families to obtain affordable housing; and (d) comply with the administrative requirements in RD Instruction 1944-B, other RHS policies and regulations.

Preapplication Coordination:

This program is excluded from coverage under E.O. 12372. Application Procedure:

A package will consist of the required forms for the respective loan or grant program, as listed in Exhibit C of RD Instruction 1944-B. Grantees shall submit all material requested to the local Rural Development office. In addition, an original and copy of Forms RD 400-1, "Equal Opportunity Agreement," and Form RD 400-4, "Assurance Agreement," must be submitted. A copy of a current "Certificate of Training" pertaining to the type of application will be submitted. Applicants must also provide proof of nonprofit status under Section 501 (c)(3) or Section 501 (c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code or of their existence as a State agency or unit of government legally authorized to work in the designated county and/or colonia. An SF-270, "Request for Advance or Reimbursement," will be submitted with each package for the amount authorized for the specific loan type, as listed in Exhibit B of RD Instruction 1944-B. Award Procedure:

Awards are made by the State Director.

Deadlines:

None.

Range of Approval/Disapproval Time:

The determination is made by the State Director. Grantees must attend training each year in order to qualify for assistance. A copy of a current "Certificate of Training" pertaining to the type of application package must be submitted. Generally, training must be completed prior to December 31 of any year. Appeals:

Appeal rights are available under 7 CFR 3550.4. Renewals:

Grantees may reapply and packages may be submitted after the annual housing application packaging orientation and training is held, and a "Certificate of Training" is issued.

Formula and Matching Requirements:

Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Telephone: (202) 720

1474. FTS is not available.

Web Site Address:

http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

RELATED PROGRAMS:

10.405, Farm Labor Housing Loans and Grants; 10.410, Very Low to Moderate Income Housing Loans; 10.411, Rural Housing Site Loans and Self Help Housing Land Development Loans; 10.415, Rural Rental Housing Loans; 10.417, Very Low-Income Housing Repair Loans and Grants; 10.433, Rural Housing Preservation Grants.

EXAMPLES OF FUNDED PROJECTS:

Not applicable.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PROPOSALS: Not applicable.

10.443 OUTREACH AND ASSISTANCE FOR SOCIALLY DISADVANTAGED FARMERS AND RANCHERS

FEDERAL AGENCY:

ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATION, OFFICE OF OUTREACH, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AUTHORIZATION:

Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, Section 2501, Public Law 101-624, 7 U.S.C. 2279. OBJECTIVES:

To reverse the decline of socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers across the United States. The intended outcome is to encourage and assist socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers to own and operate their own farms and ranches, participate in agricultural programs, and thus allow them to become an integral part of the agricultural community and strengthen the rural economy. TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

Project Grants.

USES AND USE RESTRICTIONS:

To provide outreach, training and technical assistance to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers on agricultural programs.

Applicant Eligibility:

1890 Land-Grant Institutions, including Tuskegee University, Indian Tribal Community Colleges, Alaska Native cooperative colleges, Hispanic serving post-secondary educational institutions, other post-secondary educational institutions providing Agricultural education or other agriculturally-related services to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers in their region and community-based organizations that: (1) Have demonstrated experience in providing agricultural education or other agriculturally related services to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers in their region; (2) provides documentary evidence of its past experience in working with socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers during the 2 years preceding its application for assistance; and (3) does not engage in activities prohibited under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Beneficiary Eligibility:

A farmer or rancher who is a member of one or more of the following groups whose members have been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as members of a group without regard to their individual qualities. Groups include, but are not limited to, African-Americans, Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, Hispanics, Asians, and Pacific Islanders. The Secretary of Agriculture will determine on a case-by-case basis whether additional groups qualify under this definition, either at the Secretary's initiative or in response to a written request with supporting explanation.

Credentials/Documentation:

Applicants must have the financial, legal, administrative, and operational capacity to carry out the objectives of the program by having experience in agriculture. Costs will be determined in accordance with OMB Circular No. A122 "Cost Principles for Nonprofit Organizations" and OMB Circular No. A-21, "Cost Principles for Educational Institutions" as implemented by USDA regulation 7 CFR part 3019. Community-based organizations should provide a current certification of non-profit status in accordance with section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

Preapplication Coordination:

Notice of fund availability and request for proposals will be published in the Federal Register. This program is excluded from coverage under E.O. 12372.

Application Procedure:

Formal proposals should be submitted as outlined in the solicitation of proposals/applications. Application procedures are contained in the 2501 Program Application booklet. This program is subject to the Administrative procedures of 7 CFR Part 26.

Award Procedure:

Proposals are reviewed and evaluated by the 2501 Program staff members with the assistance and advice of a review panel of appropriate persons that are specialists who are qualified by training and experience in the fields covered by the proposals. Proposals are ranked and recommended in order of merit and funded to the extent permitted by available funds. Final approval for those

proposals selected will be made by the Awarding Official. Deadlines:

Dates governing the acceptance, review, and selection of projects will be published in the Federal Register Notice or other applicable publication announcing the request for proposals.

Range of Approval/Disapproval Time:

Notice of action taken on proposals will generally be within 90 days of final date of submission dateline.

Appeals:

As stipulated in OMB Circular No. A-110, Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and other Nonprofit Organizations.

Renewals:

None. Applicants that have previously received a grant, and have achieved the goals established for the previous grant, must reapply for an additional grant under the initial grant procedures.

Formula and Matching Requirements:

None.

Length and Time Phasing of Assistance:

Grants can be awarded from one to five years as stipulated by the current request for proposals notification published in the Federal Register.

Reports:

Quarterly financial and program performance/progress reports are due within 30 days after the reporting period. A final financial and performance/progress report is required within 90 days of the expiration of each agreement, which shall include an evaluation of the activities under the Agreement since the inception of the Project.

Audits:

In accordance with the provisions of 7 CFR Part 3052, "Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations," which implement OMB Circular No. A-133 (Revised, June 27, 2003), "Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations," Nonfederal entities that expend financial assistance of $500,000 or more in Federal awards will have a single or a program-specific audit conducted for that year. Nonfederal entities that expend less than $500,000 a year in Federal awards are exempt from Federal audit requirements for that year, except as noted in 7 CFR 3052.

Records:

Grantees shall maintain separate records for each grant to ensure that funds are used for authorized purposes. Grant-related records must be retained at least three years; records must be retained beyond the three-year period if litigation is pending or audit findings have not been resolved. Account Identification:

12-0601-0-1-351.

Obligations:

(Grants) FY 07 $5,666,890; FY 08 est $6,652,800; and FY 09 est not reported. Range and Average of Financial Assistance:

FY 2001, 27 recipients - $62,941 to $550,000, average was approximately $225,000; and FY 2002, 30 recipients - $66,437 to $276,822, average was approximately $200,000.

PROGRAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

The 27 recipients serviced 22 States and 394 counties by providing assistance to more than 8,686 farmers and ranchers. These efforts have provided outreach to more than 107,566 rural constituents.

REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND LITERATURE:

7 CFR Part 26, "Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Program; and 2501 Program Application Booklet. Regional or Local Office:

Contact appropriate USDA State Office listed in Appendix IV of Catalog. Headquarters Office:

Department of Agriculture, USDA Office of Outreach, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., AG STOP 1710, Washington, DC 20250. Telephone: (202)7206350. Fax: (202) 720-7489.

Web Site Address:

http://www.usda.gov/agency/outreach. RELATED PROGRAMS:

10.224, Fund for Rural America_Research, Education, and Extension Activities; 10.350, Technical Assistance to Cooperatives; 10.450, Crop Insurance; 10.500, Cooperative Extension Service; 10.960, Technical Agricultural Assistance. EXAMPLES OF FUNDED PROJECTS:

Under the current funded projects, the grantees proposed a one-year plan for outreach and technical assistance to encourage and assist socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers to own and operate farms and ranches and to participate in agricultural programs.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTING PROPOSALS:

Prior to technical examination, a preliminary review will be made for responsiveness to the solicitation. Proposals that do not fall within the solicitation guidelines will be eliminated from competition. All accepted proposals will be reviewed by a review panel. In evaluating the proposal, the following will be taken into account to the degree to which the proposal demonstrates the following: (1)degree to which the proposal clearly describes its

objective and evidences a high level of feasibility and consistency with USDA policy and the Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers objectives; (2)degree to which the institution or organization is committed to the project, as shown by funds, in-kind services, or historical success in meeting the objectives of the program; (3)degree to which the proposal reflects collaborative approaches in meeting with other agencies or organizations to enhance the objectives of the program. Also, the areas and number of farmers who would benefit from the services offered; (4)degree to which the proposal contains efforts to reach persons identified as socially disadvantaged and farmers in designated socially disadvantage counties; and (5) degree to which the proposal reflects special innovative features to attract, interest, and improve the economical and social conditions of the farmer and/or rancher.

10.444 DIRECT HOUSING-NATURAL DISASTER LOANS AND GRANTS

(SECTION 504, Rural Housing Loans and Grants)

FEDERAL AGENCY:

RURAL DEVELOPMENT, HOUSING PROGRAMS (RHP), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

AUTHORIZATION:

Housing Act of 1949, Title V, Section 504, as amended, Public Laws 89-117, 89-754, and 92-310, 42 U.S.C. 1474; Public Law 104-134. OBJECTIVES:

To assist qualified recipients to meet emergency assistance needs resulting from natural disaster. Funds are only available to the extent that funds are not provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). For the purpose of administering these funds, natural disaster will only include those counties identified by a Presidential declaration. TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

Direct Loans; Project Grants.

USES AND USE RESTRICTIONS:

To assist very-low income owner-occupants to repair or replace damaged property as a direct result of a natural disaster. Loans are made in counties named by the Federal Management Agency as being eligible for Federal assistance under an emergency declaration by the President. Applicant Eligibility:

Applicants must own and occupy the home in a rural area. Loan recipients must have sufficient income to repay the loan. Grant recipients must be 62 years of age or older and be unable to repay a loan for that part of the assistance received as a grant. The applicant's income for a loan may not exceed the very lowincome limit which can be obtained in any Rural Development (RD) field office. Beneficiary Eligibility:

Applicants/borrowers are the direct beneficiaries when they meet all eligibility

criteria.

Credentials/Documentation:

Natural disasters will only include those areas identified by a Presidential declaration. Funds are only available to the extent that funds are not provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Applicants must establish that physical damage was caused by natural disaster. For Section 504 loans/grants, there must be evidence of ownership and verification of income and debts. For grant recipients, evidence of age is required. The applicant must be unable to get credit elsewhere and demonstrate repayment for the loan. Preapplication Coordination:

This program is excluded from coverage under OMB Circular No. A-102 and E.O. 12372.

Application Procedure:

Applicants must file Form RD 410-4 at the Rural Development field office serving the county where the dwelling is located. This program is excluded from coverage under OMB Circular No. A-110.

Award Procedure:

Final approval of the application is given by the local or area office loan approval official.

Deadlines:

Applicants must file applications from the date of declaration/designation and until supplemental appropriated funds are exhausted.

Range of Approval/Disapproval Time:

From 30 to 60 days subject to the availability of funds, from the time the application is filed if no backlog of applications exist.

Appeals:

Applicants may request reconsideration at the local RD field office and may appeal adverse actions in accordance with 7 CFR Part 11. Appeals may be filed within 30 days after notification of the adverse decision is received by the loan/grant applicants.

Renewals:

Not applicable.

Formula and Matching Requirements:

This program has no matching requirement or statutory formula.