USDA Rural Development provides financial assistance to rural First Responders

In any emergency, all Texans count on first responders.

Law enforcement, fire fighters, EMT and medical services protect public safety. USDA Rural Development responded to these needs in 2006 by providing more than $2.6 million for first responder facilities and equipment for nearly 173,000 rural Texans.

"We work hard to assist rural communities prepare for emergencies and the delivery of lifesaving services," said Bryan Daniel, USDA Rural Development State Director. "Our Community Facility Programs offer loans and grants to rural Texas communities as a part of USDA's First Responder Initiative."

USDA Rural Development has earmarked one-fifth of Community Facility Program funds to first responder projects.

Both grants and low-interest loans are available to support the building of facilities and equipment in rural areas.

Eligible projects include fire protection equipment, fire stations, fire trucks, rescue and ambulance services and equipment, emergency response training, physician's clinics, early storm warning systems, education facilities for emergency services, police stations and cars, communications centers, and mobile communications centers.

Detailed information and applications for financial assistance are available at 30 local USDA Rural Development Offices located throughout Texas.

For additional information call the State Office at 254-742- 9700 or visit us on the web at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/tx/.