May 15, 2002, Topeka, Kansas—USDA Rural Development has approved a Community Facility Loan of $100,000 to benefit the Decatur County Hospital in Oberlin, Kansas, according to Chuck Banks, Kansas Director for USDA Rural Development. The hospital is contributing $50,000 toward the project and a Rural Economic Development Grant of $200,000 is being provided through Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc. USDA Rural Development is the Federal agency responsible for the development of rural communities through the administration of a number of programs designed to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas.

According to David Barber, Rural Development Specialist in the Hays office, Rural Development funds will be used to help purchase new Cat Scan equipment for the hospital. The unit currently in use has become outdated and is in need of an upgrade. Decatur County Hospital is owned by Decatur County and governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Board of County Commissioners.

"Rural Development loans and grants help rural communities retain jobs, create new jobs and ensure the safety and security of their citizens. USDA Rural Development is pleased to be able to provide cities and towns in Kansas with the benefits Community Facility loans and grants provide," State Director Banks said.

Community Facility loan and grant funds may be used to construct, enlarge, or improve community facilities for day care, health care, public safety, and other public services. These loans and grants are usually made to public entities and nonprofit organizations. Applications can be easily obtained from your local USDA Rural Development office, or for more information, visit our website at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov