Press Releases

Avoca, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development division awarded a Community Facility grant totaling $52,850 to Avoca Hose Company.

Funds will be used to purchase a new 2018 Typhoon pumper rescue for the fire company. This will replace a 14-year-old single engine/pumper rescue unit.

“I am a strong supporter of federal investments to keep our rural communities safe and strong,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “It is our responsibility to ensure our first responders have the equipment and training they need to protect themselves while they do the dangerous work of protecting our families, homes, and businesses.”

Avoca Hose Company is also receiving funding from other sources, including a $102,640 LSA (Local Share Account) Grant and a $150,000 VLAP (Volunteer Loan Assistance Program) Loan. In addition, Avoca Hose Company is contributing $97,469, which includes proceeds from the sale of their current pumper truck.

USDA Rural Development offers a broad portfolio of programs to improve the lives of rural Americans. They provide loans, grants, and loan guarantees for housing, health care, and first responder services and equipment as well as water, electric and communications infrastructure. They promote economic development through loans to businesses through banks, credit unions and community-managed lending pools. They provide technical assistance to help communities undertake community empowerment programs, and they help rural residents buy or rent safe, affordable housing as well as make health and safety repairs to their homes.