SOMERSET, Ky. — Three Somerset entities were awarded more than one million dollars in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Rural Development (USDA-RD) on Friday, October 16th. Congressman Hal Rogers joined USDA-RD State Director Hilda Legg at The Center for Rural Development to announce the competitive awards for Sunrise Children’s Services, the City of Somerset and the Southeast Kentucky Economic Development Corporation (SKED). 

“Despite its name, USDA invests in far more than agriculture. They have an entire division dedicated to our needs in rural America and these grant awards will be used to help us address some of the most pressing challenges in our region, including the opioid epidemic, job creation and emergency services,” said Congressman Rogers. “We are thankful for the USDA’s continued investment in our region and the work of our local leaders to compete for these available funds.” 

Sunrise Children’s Services located in Bronston, Kentucky was awarded nearly $40,000 for critical repairs to its Alpine Tower and Odyssey Course. The organization offers a therapeutic residential program for young men ages 12 to 18 who have experienced drug abuse in their homes, mental health disorders and other challenges. 

SKED received a $1 million loan for its relending program and a $92,000 grant to provide direct loans to businesses across 45 counties in Kentucky’s Appalachian region. Thanks to USDA support, SKED has been abel to help create and retain nearly 3,300 jobs in the service area.

The City of Somerset receveived a $50,000 grant to help purchase a new ambulance for the community, which is expected to be delivered at the end of the month.