Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced USDA Rural Development has awarded funding to two organizations in Maine’s First Congressional District totaling $2.57 Million.
“As a member of both the House Agriculture and House Appropriations Committees, I’ve advocated for federal funding that supports critical infrastructure and economic development in Maine’s rural communities,” said Congresswoman Pingree. “I’m proud to have fought for this funding and look forward to the impact this funding has for Wolfe’s Neck and Old Orchard Beach.”
Details of the grants are as follows:
Wolfe’s Neck Farm Foundation, Inc. has been awarded $2,500,000 to construct an education, training and research facility. The Smith Center for Education and Research will enable the organization to expand upon their ability to engage in charitable, education and scientific activities related to alternative farming techniques, conservation management, research, education and public stewardship. It will allow them to increase their workshops, seminars and camp meetings from 18 participants to around 150. This funding will provide a needed heated indoor growing space, teaching kitchen, classroom space, dining area and a small year-round retail space. This facility will benefit more than 281,000 individuals.
The Town of Old Orchard Beach has been awarded $50,000 for the acquisition of a new ambulance and lifesaving and safety equality. Old Orchard Beach is a summertime destination for many tourists, and it is important for the town to have adequate emergency vehicles and equipment to help those require assistance. The purchase will also include two power stretchers, making it easier to load and unload patience. This funding will help provide a safer environment for more than 8,700 individuals who live in and visit this area.
Congresswoman Pingree sits on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, which oversees discretionary funding for USDA programs.
The two funding announcements in ME-01 are part of 737 projects that USDA is making in five programs that will fund essential community services to help rural America build back better, stronger and more equitably than ever before. These programs include Community Facilities Direct Loans and Grants, Community Facilities Loan Guarantees, Community Facilities Technical Assistance Training Grants, Community Facilities Disaster Grants, and Economic Impact Initiative Grants. The projects will finance emergency response vehicles and equipment; build or improve hospitals and clinics and help fund other essential community facilities.
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