WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Charlie Melancon (D-LA) today unveiled an improved congressional web site providing more information for south Louisianians on government resources available to them, including links to federal grant programs, student financial aid, and information for teachers to help them in the classroom.  Additionally, a new section highlighting the people and places of the Third District has been added to promote south Louisiana and encourage tourism.

“As a voice for south Louisiana in Washington, I work to serve as a bridge between the people I represent and their federal government,” said Rep. Melancon.  “This additional online information will not only help give south Louisianians greater access to all that the federal government has to offer, it will help ensure that their government is working for them.”

Rep. Melancon continued, “The new section on Louisiana’s Third District showcases this unique part of the country we are proud to call home, and encourages tourists to visit us and experience for themselves our festivals, historic sites, and natural attractions.”

All congressional offices serve as liaisons between the people and their government, and Rep. Melancon’s newly updated website makes it easier for constituents to obtain reliable information about federal government programs and access government resources.  The constituent services section provides information on navigating federal services, such as federal grant assistance, Small Business Administration programs, and student financial aid opportunities.  The web site provides links to the appropriate government websites and offers tips on how to best use those web sites. To view all of these web pages, go to www.melancon.house.gov and click on “How Can I Help You?”

The newly updated web site also focuses on assisting Louisiana’s students and educators.  A new section entitled “Resources for Students and Educators” compiles links to educational resources and tools for teachers and students.  A webpage just for students connects young people with information on how government works, useful research websites, tips on choosing a college major and career field, and how to pursue for military and other public service careers.  Links to resources to help teachers in the classroom are compiled on a new webpage for educators.  As a member of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Rep. Melancon also included a link to the committee’s website on science education, “Science Education and You.”

Congressman Melancon’s updated website also provides resources to help prospective college students and their families pay for higher education.   A new financial aid webpage offers resources on applying for federal financial aid, Federal Pell grants and scholarships, and outside assistance, as well as suggestions on how to make financing college more manageable.

Finally, a new section of the website provides visitors with detailed information about the Third District itself. These web pages give background information about the people, culture, and history of southeast Louisiana and offer visitors more information to help them plan a trip to the region.  To view this section, go to www.melancon.house.gov and click on “Louisiana’s 3rd District.”

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