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NEWS RELEASE 1303
SW First American Place, Suite 100, Topeka,
KS 66604-4040 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 15, 2004
Contact - Harold Alford (785) 271-2701
USDA
Rural Development Announces
Record Funding For Kansas
Topeka, KS – USDA Rural Development State Director announced today that the Agency achieved a record level of funding for Fiscal Year 2004, totaling nearly $152 million. To commemorate this level of funding, supporting programs which benefit rural Kansas and the entire State, USDA Rural Development staff will travel across Kansas the week of October 18th recognizing a number of businesses who partner with the Agency to promote community and economic development.
“USDA Rural Development is proud to deliver this record level of funding to Kansas, a 28% increase over FY2003. These programs support creating more affordable housing, encourage the financing of needed rural water systems and help promote the development of important local businesses. With the participation of many rural partners across the State, and the critical support of our Kansas Congressional delegation, these programs improve the economic development and quality of life for Kansans. The Agency wishes to thank those partners for their valued support and their continued participation in these programs,” commented State Director Banks.
During next week’s tour the Agency will make sixteen community stops across the state, recognizing businesses for their support of various Agency programs, touring projects currently under construction and delivering ceremonial funding checks for several recently approved business proposals. State Director Banks and Agency staff will also meet with local community leaders to discuss both community needs and economic challenges facing those areas of rural Kansas.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, the Agency provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure in rural America.
For additional information regarding USDA Rural Development programs, individuals may call 785-271-2702 or log onto the state’s Agency’s website at: www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks
USDA Rural Development – Committed to the future of rural communities.
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