WASHINGTON, DC-Some rural communities across the country will get a shot in the arm to improve their economies. Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman today announced $13.3 million in grants, loans, and loan guarantees to 47 new rural economic development projects across the country. The investments will create or save 967 jobs in areas of high unemployment, and generate $4.4 million in leveraged funds.
The largest grant award is a $615,000 grant that will be used to bring improved telecommunications service to rural areas of North Dakota suffering from job losses and high rates of out-migration. Three grants totaling $600,000 will be used to assist in the renovation or construction of medical facilities in rural areas of Georgia, Kansas and Iowa. Another grant will assist in the construction of a 16-unit assisted living facility for elderly residents in Union, Iowa.
USDA provides financial assistance targeted to rural areas suffering from high rates of poverty or unemployment to help create jobs, provide essential services, and stimulate local economic development. For more information on USDA Rural Development programs contact your state USDA office which can be contacted by dialing (202) 720-4323, or check the Rural Development web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/.