For Release: Monday, November 8, 2004
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO ANNOUNCES USDA AWARD FOR PINCKNEYVILLE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that Pinckneyville Community Hospital has received a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Office of Rural Development.  The funds are part of an effort to support the Delta Regional Authority (DRA). 

Costello has been a strong supporter of the DRA, including leading a bipartisan effort in Congress to secure permanent road funds for the DRA as part of the reauthorization of national highway legislation. 

The DRA is modeled after the Appalachian Regional Commission and is responsible for developing plans and establishing programs for the economic development of the Delta region.  Sixteen Illinois counties are in the Delta, including Randolph, Perry, Jackson, Union, Alexander, Pulaski, Franklin, Williamson, Johnson, Massac, Hamilton, Saline, Pope, White, Gallatin, and Hardin. 

"Supporting quality health care services is critical for economic development," said Costello.  "I will continue to work to ensure that these resources are available to our communities."

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