Press Releases

Blakely, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded a Community Facility Grant to Blakely Hose Co. #2.

The $32,000 Rural Development grant funds will be used to help with the purchase of a 2018 rescue/pumper/squad vehicle for the fire company. This vehicle is a type of specialty firefighting or emergency medical services apparatus that is set up to carry a full complement of tools and equipment. 

“Targeted federal funding, like the loans and grants through the USDA’s Community Facilities program, go a long way toward helping our first responders and small communities maintain a good quality of life for residents,” said Rep. Cartwright a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “I support maintaining these programs to ensure our small towns do not get left out or left behind.”

The USDA Community Facilities Programs falls within the scope of USDA Rural Development, which is committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. The Community Facilities program offers direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants to develop or improve essential public services and facilities in communities across rural America. These amenities help increase the competitiveness of rural communities in attracting and retaining businesses that provide employment and services for their residents. An essential community facility is one that provides an essential service to the local community, is needed for the orderly development of the community, serves a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.