Homebound senior citizens living in Madison, Florida, now have to look no further than their front doors for a nutritious meal and a means of transportation to medical appointments. The delivery of a new van to the Senior Citizens Council of Madison County, Inc. will make a world of difference to homebound seniors and seniors seeking transportation to medical appointments and other activities.
The Senior Citizens Council of Madison County, a non-profit organization formed in 1976, is the sole provider of senior citizen services in Madison County, an area designated as a Federal County of Persistent Poverty. At a dedication ceremony Thursday held at the senior center, council officials took delivery of a new 14-passenger van, whose purchase was made possible through a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities grant of $24,806 and $20,296 from senior center resources.
In addition to providing meals to homebound seniors, the van that will offer seniors transportation to medical care visits and to the senior center, which offers health education, arts & crafts, a computer lab, and a fitness room. Services provided by the senior center assist seniors by providing a variety of health benefits which promote healthier living and a better quality of life.
“Helping our seniors is just one way Rural Development helps rural communities with essential services, including public safety, transportation and healthcare,” said USDA Rural Development State Director Richard A. Machek. “These projects, and many more like them, demonstrate the critical role USDA Rural Development can play in communities across the country.”
President Obama's plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and President Obama’s historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.