(KTNC) - USDA Rural Development continued to provide funding to Nebraska communities, businesses, and individuals in the last fiscal year. 
 According to Maxine Moul, the Executive Director of USDA Rural Development in Nebraska, says in the year ending September 30, the agency provided $257 million in grants and loans to communities, businesses, and rural homeowners in Nebraska.   (play audio  :38    “affordable loans.”)
 Moul says they worked with 1200 homebuyers in Nebraska last year, and they had more money they could have loaned.  She says people should talk to their lender about Rural Development loans.
 USDA Rural Development can work with people in most communities in Nebraska, outside of Omaha and Lincoln.  (play audio  :19)
 Moul says the agency has funding through March 27th, thanks to a continuing resolution approved by Congress.   (play audio  :24)
 The uncertain situation surrounding the Farm Bill could have an impact on Rural Development funding.  (play audio  :25)
 To find out more about USDA Rural Development programs in Nebraska, Google “USDA Rural Development Nebraska,” or call the state office in Lincoln, at 402-437-5551.