ANNAPOLIS, Md., June 8, 2015 – USDA Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Vernita F. Dore today joined USDA Rural Development State Director Bill McGowan to recognize the partnership between Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) and San Mar Children’s Home.
Last year, San Mar Children’s Home was awarded a $450,883 USDA Rural Development Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant. They have used those resources to purchase critical communication equipment that links their facility with DJS rural treatment and youth centers throughout Maryland.
“San Mar Children’s Home has more than 100 years of service providing quality care for children in need. USDA is pleased to further assist San Mar Children’s Home’s efforts to provide tele-health and behavior consultations for youth in rural locations despite physician shortages by connecting treatment and youth centers with needed healthcare professionals regardless of location,” Dore said.
Dore also announced that USDA is accepting applications for its Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program. The Distance Learning and Telemedicine program helps rural communities use the unique capabilities of telecommunications to connect to each other and to the world, overcoming the effects of remoteness and low population density.
USDA Rural Development is making $19 million available for fiscal year 2015. The Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program finances telecommunications equipment, computer networks and advanced technologies for use by students, teachers, medical professionals and rural residents. Minimum grant amounts are $50,000; maximum amounts are $500,000 for fiscal year 2015. To learn more about USDA Rural Development programs please visit or contact the Delaware-Maryland Rural Development State Office. Here is a link: http://www.rd.usda.gov/de