West Sacramento, Calif. — A $20,000 Mechanics Bank grant to Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) will advance its economic development and affordable housing work in rural California.

The Mechanics Bank grant will support RCAC’s Building Rural Economies (BRE) program in low-income rural communities. In addition to teaching skills to start or expand rural small businesses, BRE promotes idea exchange and accelerates professional network development. BRE supports local entrepreneurs and helps create jobs; and the program nurtures catalytic projects that lead to further investment while fostering entrepreneurial environments that promote economic growth.

The grant will also support RCAC’s Development Solutions program, which offers a broad range of services to nonprofit housing organizations in resource-limited and underserved rural communities. The program offers direct assistance, training and financial support to nonprofit housing agencies that develop and manage affordable multifamily rental housing in low-income rural areas.

“Mechanics Bank is a valued partner, and we are grateful for its ongoing support,” said Suzanne Anarde, RCAC Chief Executive Officer. “This grant ensures that we can continue to create a prosperous, healthy and sustainable future for rural communities.”

Founded in 1978, RCAC provides training, technical and financial resources and advocacy so rural communities can achieve their goals and visions. RCAC serves rural communities in 13 western states and western Pacific islands. Services are available to communities with populations of fewer than 50,000, other nonprofit groups, Tribal organizations, farmworkers, colonias and other specific populations. RCAC staff provides direct services in program areas including affordable housing, environmental services, economic development and lending. To learn more about RCAC, visit http://www.rcac.org

Contact:
Julia Helmreich, director
Communications and Development
Cell phone (916) 529-7563
jhelmreich@rcac.org