TEMPLE, TX Oct. 23, 2020 – The Trump Administration yesterday announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $132 thousand to help rural residents gain access to health care and educational opportunities. USDA is providing the funding through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine program (DLT).
“USDA is committed to partnering with local leaders to provide the tools and resources needed in order to ensure rural prosperity in Texas today and in the future,” said State Director Edd Hargett. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA has been working tirelessly to be a strong partner to rural Texas in building stronger and healthier communities, because we know when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
Recipients can use DLT funding to for acquisition of eligible capital assets, such as broadband facilities, audio, video and interactive video equipment, terminal and data terminal equipment, computer hardware, network components and software, and inside wiring and similar infrastructure that further DLT services, acquisition of instructional programming that is a capital asset, and acquisition of technical assistance and instruction for using eligible equipment.
Navarro College is receiving a $132,800 grant to involve three strategies to improve distance learning for the residents in rural communities located in Navarro, Ellis, Limestone, Leon, and Freestone counties. Strategies include implementing video conferencing for dual credit students at rural high schools, establishing the Navarro College Mexia Campus as a hub for rural students to participate in distance learning programs, and installing a laptop kiosk at the Mexia State Supported Living Center to increase access for employees of the facility to Navarro College courses and programs.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.
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