BONHAM, TEXAS, November 9, 2009 -- USDA Rural Development Area Director, Allen Lambright, presented a ceremonial check to the Fannin County Multipurpose Complex for a $22,190 Community Facility Grant to purchase new furniture which will enable the complex to better serve the residents of Fannin County.

“USDA Rural Development is committed to providing assistance to rural towns and communities to help them provide valuable services to their residents,” said Paco Valentin, USDA Rural Development State Director.

"I am pleased that the Fannin County Multipurpose Complex is a recipient of this USDA Community Facility Grant.  This award is a testament to the quality of service being provided in Fannin County and is an example of how federal dollars can be put to good use at the local level," commented Congressman Ralph Hall, District 4.

In Fiscal Year 2009, a total of $ 1,075,212 in Community Facility Grants was obligated in Texas.  Funds are used to enhance the quality of life for residents of rural areas by providing the means for construction, expansion, or enhancement of community facilities, telecommunication and distance education programs, and water and waste disposal systems.  These programs are important because they supply a number of growth opportunities to communities with improved utility facilities, increased job availability, and technology and educational resources.

USDA Rural Development strives to see that rural citizens can participate fully in the global economy by providing technical assistance, funding, and other programs that help rural Americans build strong economies to improve their quality of life. 

For further information regarding USDA Rural Development Programs, contact the McKinney Area Office at (972) 542-0081, Extension 4, or visit our website at http://rurdev.usda.gov/tx/.

Front row: (l-r) Bill Jones, John Burnett, Congressman Ralph Hall, Richard Glaser, David Keene, and Allen Lambright. Back row: Joe Ward, Pat Hilliard, Gary Edwards, Lauri Blake, and Ann Bull.