Program helps fund community facilities

According to a news release, funded projects included four daycare centers, three health care facilities, a museum, a library and a food pantry. Total funding was more than $11.2 million throughout the state. Other uses included fire and rescue projects, the release stated.

Community facilities assistance comes through direct loans, grants or guaranteed loans through a conventional lender to enhance the availability of community facilities providing essential services in rural areas and towns with populations of 20,000 people or less.

“The community facilities programs provide financing for essential projects to the quality of life in any rural community,” said Greg Branum, Missouri director for the Rural Development program, in the release.

Funds also can be used to acquire land for a facilities, pay professional fees or buy equipment.