Northeast Missouri Community Action Agency Receives $167K USDA Rural Development Grant
Anita J. Dunning, Missouri Acting State Director for USDA Rural Development announced the awarding of $167,000 to the Northeast Missouri Community Action Agency and presented a Mock Check to James Robertson, President and Penny Miles, Executive Director in a ceremony November 28 in Wayland, MO.
The USDA Rural Development funding consisted of a $167,000 community facility loan to purchase the existing Wayland Head Start building. The Wayland Head Start Center opened at this site in August 1999. The facility is an essential asset to rural Clark County and the City of Wayland as it provides services to 20 children with 5 employees.
"This project is a direct result of a strong partnership between the federal government, local leadership and community involvement," said U.S. Senator Bond. "There is no substitute for cooperation."
"Early education programs, like Head Start, are so important in helping our children achieve success in school. With this funding, Wayland Head Start can continue to reach those children who need it most," said U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill.
"This loan is a good example of how the federal government can partner with agencies that effectively offer direct assistance to the most vulnerable in our communities," U.S. Congressman Hulshof stated. "The Northeast Missouri Community Action Agency’s track record of having a positive impact on people’s lives throughout the area makes me confident that this investment will be put to good use and will strengthen the efforts of NMCAA."
We were in danger of losing the facility in Wayland due to increased rents but thanks USDA Rural Development in providing loan assistance; we are able to continue providing quality services to children at that center, stated Penny Miles, Executive Director of NMCAA.
"This kind of assistance mirrors USDA Rural Development’s mission and President Bush’s initiative of being committed to the future of rural communities," said Dunning. "Appreciation is extended to our federal elected officials for supporting USDA Rural Development. They have been strong proponents for the necessary funding for essential services for rural Missourians."
The funds are part of the Community Facilities Program, which provides grants and loans to assist in the development of essential community facilities in rural areas and towns up to 20,000 in population.
Anyone seeking more information about this or any other USDA Rural Development programs my visit the homepage at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mo/ or by contacting Cheryl Elliott, Rural Development Manager, 17623 Hwy 19, New London, MO 63459, or by email to cheryl.elliott@mo.usda.gov or by calling (573) 985-7211 extension 4.
