NEWS RELEASE USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT PUERTO RICO

Media Contact: Miguel Ramírez
Phone: 787-859-2880 ext. 118
E-Mail: miguel.ramirez@pr.usda.gov

USDA PROVIDES A LOAN OF $3,554,000 TO COSSMA HEALTH CLINIC IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF CIDRA

     San Juan, Puerto Rico, November 19, 2004--José A. Otero-García, USDA Rural Development's Puerto Rico State Director, announced a $3,554,000 loan to COSSMA health care clinic. The funds support President Bush's efforts to create jobs and improve economic opportunities in rural areas.

     Personnel of the USDA Rural Development Caguas Area Office participated in the Ground Breaking Ceremony of the future health care clinic in the municipality of Cidra. COSSMA is a faith-based organization health clinic that provides service to 17,800 people annually.

     COSSMA provides medical services to the municipalities of Aibonito, Aguas Buenas, Cayey, Cidra, Caguas, Juncos, Gurabo and San Lorenzo. This organization will provide 67 direct jobs when it starts operations in December 2005.

     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, Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure.

     Additional information on USDA Rural Development Programs can be obtained by writing: miguel.ramirez@pr.usda.gov or by calling Miguel A. Ramírez at (787) 859-2880, ext 118. USDA Rural Development is committed to the future of rural communities.

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USDA Rural Development is an Equal Opportunity Lender, Provider, and Employer. Complaints of
discrimination should be sent to: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410

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