Monticello Live

U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representative Mike Ross (AR-04) today announced that Drew County Developmental Disabilities Services, Inc., in Monticello has received a $50,000 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development grant to help purchase playground equipment, furniture, a commercial kitchen, computer equipment and three vans that will support its new preschool center. USDA funds will cover approximately 15 percent of the total cost for the equipment.

Drew County Developmental Disabilities Services, a non-profit organization that provides services for people of all ages with developmental disabilities, will begin construction on a new preschool building and playground soon. The new facility will serve children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years. These new facilities will allow the center to meet additional demand for its services.

“I am pleased to announce this investment that will ensure more children with developmental disabilities in the Monticello area get the specialized care and instruction that will help give them a brighter future,” Lincoln said. “I am committed to securing investments that provide services and expand opportunities for Arkansans with developmental disabilities and I commend the Drew County center for their important work.”

“Drew County Developmental Disabilities Services plays an important role in the community, helping individuals with disabilities live independent and active lives. These funds will help the center expand its services for children with disabilities and give them the opportunity to learn and grow,” Pryor said.

“Without the necessary treatment or therapy, developmental disabilities can seriously hinder the quality of life for those affected,” Ross said. “I’m pleased to help announce this funding for the Drew County Development Disabilities Service. This investment will help provide Monticello with essential services and resources to enhance programs and learning facilities for those affected by developmental disabilities.”

“This funding will allow us to provide necessary equipment and services for students we would not be able to provide without the funding,” said Norman Hill, President of Drew County Developmental Disabilities Services, Inc., Board of Directors.

USDA Rural Development grants support public facilities and services, promote economic development, and offer technical assistance to help address the diverse and unique needs of rural communities.

This entry was posted on Thursday, August 12th, 2010 at 6:48 am and is filed under Announcements, Sen. Blance Lincoln Column. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.