NEWS RELEASE

United States Department of Agriculture • Rural Development

1221 College Park Drive, Suite 200, Dover, DE  19904

Phone: (302) 857-3580 • Fax: (302) 857-3640 • TDD: (302) 857-3585 • Web: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov

            Kathy Beisner (302) 857-3580 or (302) 943-3818

FEDERAL FUNDS RETURNED TO FIRST RESPONDERS

Princess Anne, MD January 8, 2008 --- Congressman Wayne Gilchrest and USDA Rural Development State Director Marlene Elliott Brown spent the morning in Wicomico and Somerset Counties announcing funds that are supporting the work of first responders.  "Our police and fire companies deserve to get the resources they need to serve their communities. USDA Rural Development is there to help them with those needs and we're grateful that this funding comes back to the Shore," said U.S. Rep. Wayne T. Gilchrest (R-Maryland-1st).

The Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Department received a $31,439 grant from USDA Rural Development to help purchase a new generator.  The fire department contributed approximately $17,000 towards the generator that has been installed and will ensure that the fire station is operational in times of electrical outages. 

       "Helping to improve the quality of life for rural residents is what our programs are designed to do," said Elliott Brown.  "Our Community Facilities program is one of our more versatile programs that can help public bodies and non-profit organizations improve services to rural residents.  From public safety to health care to education and more the Community Facilities program can help thousands of people in rural areas with access to improved services and facilities." 

        Earlier in Snow Hill, Maryland – Congressman Gilchrest and USDA representatives presented a ceremonial check, representing $23,461 in grant funds, to town officials.  The funding is being used to help purchase computer equipment, a generator and a new police vehicle for the town’s police department.  Two of the department’s three vehicles have been taken out of service and its computer system requires updating to enable the department to merge data with the Worcester County Sheriff’s office system.   With funding committed by the town, altogether the items will cost $31,415. 

             Both of the announcements were funded through USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program.  Rural Development has a program for almost any rural need.  In addition to programs that support essential community facilities, they also have programs that support agriculture, business development, home ownership, home repair and rental housing.  Rural Development’s motto is “Committed to the future of rural communities.”  To learn more about the programs that support rural areas call their local office in Snow Hill at 410-632-0616 ext. 4 or visit their website at www.rurdev.usda.gov.

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