We, the undersigned, residents, community leaders, and the general public, call upon the White House and our Congress continue funding for the Section 502 Direct Loan program and the Section 523 program entirely from the FY2012 budget. These programs, working in conjunction are the best homeownership program in Rural America.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Program, established as a path to homeownership for very-low to low-income families, utilizes a sweat equity model. It is the only federally-funded homeownership program specifically for rural America, having been in existence for over 40 years. The program is funded by USDA Rural Development, has resulted in homeownership for more than 40,000 low-income families in rural America, stimulated local economies, provided job training, and help create a deeper sense of community.

As stated by the Office of Management and Budget, "No other program combines the unique features which make the Self-Help Program a success." For lower-income families, often with very few affordable housing options, the Self-Help housing program is the only mechanism for them to become homeowners.

Currently over 100 organizations in 37 states participate in the program. The program promotes homeownership for responsible buyers, generates millions of dollars in construction work, local business income, local wages and salaries, and local and state taxes.

Keep it going in our rural communities!