USDA Rural Development State Director Kenneth Slone has announced the availability of funding for the Community Facilities Program.

“USDA Rural Development can finance the purchase of equipment, infrared-thermal imaging cameras, even suits/gear for local fire departments,” said Slone. “In this day we need to ensure our firefighters have the most up-to-date equipment- Rural Development can help.

“Our Community Facility loans assist rural communities, of 20,000 populations or less, to finance essential public structures and services, while helping to attract and retain businesses that provide jobs for their residents."

USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in rural communities. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development has invested over $54 billion since the beginning of the Bush Administration to provide equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Over one million jobs have been created or saved through these investments.

Further information on the Community Facilities Program may be obtained by calling the Princeton Area Office of USDA Rural Development, 320B Traylor St., Princeton, Ky. or phone 270/365-6530, ext 5, or visiting the website www.rurdev.usda.gov/ky