For Release: Thursday, July 31, 2003
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO ANNOUNCES USDA AWARD FOR SHAWNEE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the Shawnee Development Council, located in Karnak and serving the counties of Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski and Union, has received a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Office of Rural Development. The funds will be used to repair and rehabilitate 14 homes for low and very low-income families.

"Quality, affordable housing is an important tool for economic development," Costello said. "These funds are improving the lives of many families which in turn benefits the entire community."

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