For Release: Wednesday, October 16, 2002
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS HOSPITAL SERVICES RECEIVES DELTA REGIONAL AUTHORITY GRANT

Washington -- U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that Southern Illinois Hospital Services has received a $35,147 grant from the Delta Regional Authority. The funds will be used to continue the Coordinated County School Health Program, in 16 school districts in Franklin, Jackson, Johnson, Perry, Saline and Williamson counties.

"I am pleased that the DRA is beginning to make an impact in Illinois," said Costello. "Providing quality health programs in our schools is good for our students and the overall quality of education in Southern Illinois. Good school districts attract economic development."

Modeled after the Appalachian Regional Commission, the DRA 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. The DRA was recently reauthorized for $30 million a year through 2007.

Costello is currently serving his eighth term in the House. He is a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and the Ranking Democratic Member on the Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over the DRA.

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