Louisiana, MO, Aug 18, 2010 -- Jack Kearbey, Area Specialist for USDA Rural Development, presented a Certificate of Appreciation on August 18, 2010 to the Twin Pike YMCA located in Louisiana, Missouri. Twin Pike YMCA received $55,000 through the Community Facility Grant program to purchase several pieces of new equipment. Members of the YMCA will benefit from the purchase of the new equipment having the opportunity to expand their health and wellness needs.

“This newly equipped facility will help improve the health and quality of life for local citizens,” said U.S. Senator Kit Bond.  “I applaud the Twin Pike YMCA and the USDA Rural Development staff for their commitment to the Louisiana community.”

U.S. Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer said, “This funding was critical in helping the Louisiana YMCA obtain much-needed equipment that their members can use to assist folks with their health and wellness needs, and I am certainly pleased that the USDA was able to lend a hand to this wonderful community,”

Janie Dunning Missouri State Director for USDA Rural Development said “Funding important projects like this by Rural Development mirrors President Obama’s initiatives for rural America and Rural Development’s commitment to the future of rural communities. Appreciation is also extended to our Federal elected officials for supporting USDA Rural Development. They have been strong proponents for the necessary funding for essential services for rural Missourians.”

Anyone interested in obtaining information regarding assistance available through USDA Rural Development may visit the homepage at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mo/ or can contact Jack O. Kearbey, Area Specialist, at the Rolla Sub-Area Office of USDA Rural Development at 1050 Highway 72 East, Rolla, MO 65401 or by calling (573) 364-2088 Ext. 4.

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