WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) today announced a $4,586,000 loan for electrical improvements to seven Western Kansas counties. Finney, Gove, Hodgeman, Lane, Logan, Ness and Scott counties will be served by the project. The funds will go towards constructing 30 miles of distribution line as well as improvements to the area’s current electric system. Funding for the project will come through a five-percent hardship rate loan over 35 years. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) today announced $119,257 in grants to Kansas colleges for advanced nurse training. “I’m pleased to announce these funds. Our nursing force in America is overburdened. In order to improve the quality of health care for all Americans, we need to make this investment in training nurses now,” Senator Roberts said. “These grants will help ensure the quality of life for many Kansas residents,” Roberts said.
• Fort Hays State University received $34,787 for advanced nursing education. The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $14,548 grant was awarded to the City of Dodge City to prevent and control crime in Ford County. The Dodge City Police Department will use the funds to purchase an AFIX Latent Fingerprint Work Station. The equipment will allow investigators to enter and access a database of fingerprints and palm prints and aide in the clearance of cases in Ford County. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improving law enforcement efforts in the state of Kansas.” The grant was made available by the 2006 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program. The JAG program assists criminal justice programs based on local needs and conditions. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Justice.
WASHINGTON DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) today announced a $5,826 grant to the Finney County Sheriff’s Office in Garden City. The grant will be used to purchase an Optim Freedomview Fiber Optic Scope Kit. The new equipment is cutting edge technology that will make inspections safer and easier for law enforcement officials. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve crime fighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local sheriff’s departments.” The funds were made available by the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP).
WASHINGTON DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a nearly $1 million grant for Teaching American History to Valley Heights Public Schools, USD 498, in Waterville, KS. The Teaching American History grant program supports projects to raise student achievement by improving teachers’ knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of American history. Some of the projects include partnerships with Pittsburg State University, the Liberty Memorial, the American Jazz Museum, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the Steamship Arabia. “I am proud of the superior education offered to children in Kansas,” Senator Roberts said. “These funds will continue that tradition.” The Teaching American History Grant is open to any local education authority including state-recognized charter schools that work with an institution of higher education, a non-profit history/humanities organization, library or museum to create innovative history teaching programs.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $276,000 in grants to prevent and control crime based on local needs in Kansas. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve crime fighting efforts and first responder needs in Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local law enforcement.”
• City of Leavenworth: $21,362 to purchase equipment to better enforce traffic laws and reduce accidents. Funds will also be used to support the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s patrol and jail operations.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced that a $660,000 grant was awarded to the We Care Project (WCP), a community health center in Great Bend. The grant provides funding for medical and behavioral health services for residents of Barton and Pawnee counties. In 2004, WCP served 3,061 people through 7,376 medical and mental health visits. The program serves residents who are under or uninsured or have incomes below the federal poverty level. The WCP provides primary care, diagnostic tests/screening, lab and x-ray, gynecological care, mental health treatment and counseling, hearing and vision screening, pharmacy services, health education, interpretation and translation services and outreach. For more information on the We Care Project, please e-mail wecarewecare@wecareclinic.com The grant was awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP).
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $58,900 grant was awarded to the Hutchinson Community College Fire Service Training program to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.” The $58,900 grant was awarded to the Hutchinson Community College Fire Service Training program for Fire Prevention. The funds were awarded by the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $76,700 grant to Hutchinson Community College for mine safety and health training and education. Hutchinson Community College will use the funds to provide federally mandated training to Kansas miners. The grant covers training and retraining of miners working at coal, metal and nonmetal mines. Kansas has hundreds of mines, with almost one in every county. “Given the recent tragedy in West Virginia, this training is critical,” Senator Roberts said. “Safety should be the number one priority for our miners, and I am pleased our state has received these funds to ensure worker safety and health in our Kansas mines.” The state applied for the grant, and it will be administered by Hutchinson Community College. The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $157,000 in grants were awarded to five local Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Saline County Rural Fire Department #3: $29,618 for Fire Operations and Safety The funds were awarded by the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $1,164,800 grant to the Salina Unified School District #305 for Head Start in Salina. The funds allow the Head Start program to operate childcare centers, as well provide training for childcare providers and teachers to become Head Start educators. Head Start programs serve preschool-aged children and their families in low-income areas. Senator Roberts said, “I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the great strides Head Start is making in Kansas communities. Head Start, as the name suggests, enables children in need to learn the basic life and social skills to enter school ready to learn. The program, which serves children all over Kansas, provides them with a stable, encouraging environment that allows them to learn, have fun, be nourished – and nurtured. This is particularly invaluable for a child that may not have the same environment at home.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Children and Families. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and has been a strong advocate of Head Start.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $335,000 in grants were awarded to four Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Salina Fire Department: $240,984 for Fire Operations and Safety The funds were awarded by the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced Homeland Security equipment is being awarded to five local Kansas agencies.
• Crawford County Sheriff’s Office in Girard: Night Vision Kits for Law Enforcement
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $425,000 in grants were awarded to seven Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Rush County Fire District #1 in Alexander: $19,510 for Fire Operations and Safety The funds were awarded by the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $1 million in grants were awarded to nine Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Solomon Valley Rural Fire District #3 in Lenora: $19,760 for Fire Operations and Safety The funds were awarded by the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced two grants to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for Meade and Cheney State Park improvements.
• Meade State Park will receive $250,000 to assist in the construction of a new interpretive/educational center at Meade State Park and will allow for the upgrading of park roadways, parking areas, and support facilities. These Land and Water Conservation Fund grants were awarded by the National Park Service to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in Pratt.
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $152,232 grant to Barton County Community College to prevent high-risk drinking. The funds will be used to reduce alcohol-related incidents involving college students and prevent high-risk drinking and violent behavior by developing and implementing prevention policies, sanctions, training and programming on campus. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Education.
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $1.3 million grant to the state of Kansas for women’s violence prevention. The grant will be used to develop and implement effective, victim-centered strategies to address violent crimes against women as well as to enhance victim services in those cases. “I am pleased that Kansas received this grant,” Senator Roberts said. “It is important that victims of violent crimes in Kansas be provided with a strong system of support.” The STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program aims to assist victims of violent crimes. The grant was awarded to the Governor’s office by the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced that Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants are open for select Kansas law enforcement agencies. The following programs have grants available from the United States Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS):
• Interoperable Communications Technology Program: Almost $100 million is available to law enforcement to improve interoperability between law enforcement agencies and other first responders. Deadline for applying is July 15, 2005. Please visit here for more information about these grants and the invited agencies. Grant applications may be submitted electronically or in paper copy. COPS grant applications may be downloaded and submitted through http://www.grants.gov.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $350,000 grant to enforce underage drinking laws in Kansas. The grant was awarded to the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Planning and Development in Topeka. The program, Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws, will support and enhance the state of Kansas’ efforts, along with local jurisdictions, to enforce laws prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages or the consumption of alcoholic beverages by minors. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Justice.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $3.2 million loan to Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in Wakeeney. The funds will be used to construct an addition to the existing hospital, construct a six unit assisted living facility, construct a medical clinic, and renovate the existing long term care facility. This will allow the Critical Access Hospital to provide more efficient quality health care services. The assisted living units will enable the community to provide a service that is not currently available. The loan was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced that more than $136,000 in grants were awarded to four Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Marysville Volunteer Fire Department: $28,718 for Fire Prevention The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $264,000 grant to the Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc. to install a fire protection system in the Gove County Medical Center. The funds will be used to assist Gove County Medical Center to install a fire protection sprinkler system throughout the hospital. This is necessary to maintain its status as a critical access hospital and essential in keeping the hospital open to provide health care for this rural community. The project is not expected to create any additional jobs however is assisting in the saving of 186 jobs for this community. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $248,000 grant to Emporia State University for Technology and Computing Services. The grant will be used to enhance and expand teacher preparation with technology improvements impacting students on the Emporia State University campus as well as distance learning sites and at cooperating K-12 school districts in the area. The funds will help to expand Emporia State’s network and infrastructure capacity. “Educating teachers in this day and age requires technology as a major component,” Senator Roberts said. “I am pleased that Emporia State has received this important grant.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Education. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee and an outspoken advocate of technology.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $308,000 grant for substance abuse treatment programs at the Osawatomie Correctional Facility and Larned Juvenile Correctional Facility. The Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Grant Program develops and implements substance abuse treatment programs. This program will assist Kansas in creating and maintaining community-based aftercare services for offenders who are released from institutional based substance abuse programs. Kansas will operate treatment programs at the Kansas Department of Correction’s Osawatomie Correctional Facility for adults and the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority’s Larned Juvenile Correctional Facility. This grant was awarded by the United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $36,023 in grants were awarded to two Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Clay Center Municipal Fire Department: $27,432 for Fire Prevention. The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $5.8 million loan to The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. in Dodge City. The funds will be used to serve 500 new consumers in Clark, Edwards, Finney, Ford, Gray, Haskell, Kiowa, Hodgeman, and Meade Counties, construct 50 miles of new distribution line, and for other system improvements. The loan was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $3 million in grants to eight local Kansas airports.
• Ottawa Municipal: $57,570 to install a path indicator system.
The grants were awarded by the United States Department of Transportation.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $2.8 million Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan for the Country Inn and Suites hotel in Salina. The funds will be used to purchase an existing 72 room Country Inn and Suites hotel in Salina through Salina KS Lodging, LLC.. The hotel employs 22 people in the community. The loan was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U. S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $450,000 Rural Economic Development loan to Victory Electric Cooperative, Inc. in Dodge City. The funds will be used to help purchase dairy cows for the dairy in Finney County. The dairy can accommodate 1,350 cows but currently milks 1,000 cows twice a day. To fully utilize the facility 350 more cows will be purchased. The loan was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $2.6 million Business and Industry Guaranteed loan to Ferguson Production Inc. in McPherson. A $2.6 million loan will be used to purchase machinery and equipment, working capital, cost of installing new machines, and refinance existing debt. The company is moving into a new production line for the business and will save 175 existing jobs. The loan was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $364,000 grant to Cloud County Community College for the Strengthening Institutions Program. This program will help Cloud County Community College to expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management and fiscal stability. Cloud County Community College is a public two-year comprehensive community college founded in 1965. Cloud currently enrolls 7,809 students annually. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Education. The funds were made available by the Higher Education Act of 1965.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $800,000 in grants to five Kansas airports.
• Morton County Airport in Elkhart: $114,000 to Rehabilitate Apron The grants were awarded by the United States Department of Transportation.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $1 million grant to Kansas for Homeland Security Buffer Zone Protection. The funds will be used to protect and secure areas surrounding critical infrastructure and key resource sites such as chemical facilities, dams, and nuclear plants across the country. The Buffer Zone Protection Program (BZPP) provides targeted funding through states to local jurisdictions to purchase equipment that will extend the zone of protection beyond the gates of these critical facilities. This program creates Buffer Zone Plans to reduce vulnerabilities in areas surrounding critical infrastructure and key resources. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Homeland Security.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced more than $21 million in grants to the Kansas Highway Patrol for Homeland Security. “Often when there is a natural disaster or a threat, local law enforcement are the first to act. They are on the front lines of the war on terror here at home. Funding for our first responders to become more integrated is vital to fighting the war on terror at a regional level. ” Senator Roberts said.
• $13 million for the State Homeland Security Program Together, all these funds will be used for preparedness activities associated with implementing the State Homeland Security Strategy. This program will enhance the coordination of regional efforts to prevent, respond to, and recover from terrorism related chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive incidents, cyber attacks, and natural disasters. Senator Roberts looks forward to these funds being quickly distributed to the state and on to local communities and counties in Kansas. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Domestic Preparedness. Senator Roberts is Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and has been an advocate for homeland security preparedness, especially regarding agroterrorism.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $690,000 in grants were awarded to five Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Lyon County Fire District #2 in Admire: $49,624 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety
The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $4.7 million in grants to six Kansas airports.
• Great Bend Municipal Airport: $450,000 to rehabilitate taxiway
The grants were awarded by the United States Department of Transportation.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $865,000 in grants were awarded to four Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Saline County Fire District #5 in New Cambria: $373,500 for a Firefighting Vehicle The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $347,000 in grants were awarded to six Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Junction City Fire Department: $75,044 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $350,000 in grants were awarded to five Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Republic County Rural Fire District #9 in Republic: $50,310 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $22,700 grant to the Marion County Fire District #7 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.” The funds are awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $173,000 in grants were awarded to two Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Lane County Rural Fire District: $95,000 for a Firefighting Vehicle The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $175,000 to the Kansas Department of Aging for the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. The grant will provide low-income seniors in Kansas with coupons that can be exchanged for fresh produce at farmers’ markets, roadside stands and community-supported agriculture programs. Besides providing locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs to seniors, the program increases the consumption of agricultural commodities, which expands or develops farmers’ markets and other agricultural commodity outlets. “This is a win-win program, benefiting our local Kansas farmers and helping some of our seniors by providing them nutritious fresh food,” Senator Roberts said. The funds were made available by the 2002 Farm Bill’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program which provides $15 million annually to 47 grantees in the United States. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U. S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $689,500 grant to the Konza Prairie Community Health Center in Junction City. The funds will help to provide general primary medical care, diagnostic lab and radiology, diagnostic tests and screenings, urgent medical care, 24-hour coverage and family planning. They will also provide HIV testing and counseling, immunizations, well-child exams, gynecological care, hearing and vision screening, mental health treatment and counseling, health education, and outreach and education. Last year Konza Prairie Community Health Center served 4,947 individuals through over 9,000 medical and mental patient encounters. “I am pleased to announce these funds to a center doing such important work for those who need it most, those who may have gone without healthcare in Junction City.” Senator Roberts said. Konza Prairie community Health Center was established in 1995 as a result of local community efforts to establish heath care services in the county for medically underserved residents. The community served is Geary County and the target population is residents with incomes below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, which totals over 10,000 individuals in Geary County. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Center Cluster Grant Projects.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $120,000 grant to Kinsley Fire Department for a Firefighting Vehicle. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.” The funds are awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $13 million grant to the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services to study ways Kansans with disabilities maintain employment. It is estimated that 600,000 individuals leave the work force and enroll in Social Security Disability Insurance program each year, which entitles them to Medicare coverage after a 2 year waiting period. This program will help policy makers determine whether early intervention and support could keep people on the job and not dependent upon Social Security. The funds will be used for a demonstration project created by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999, to give Center for Medicaid and State Operations (CMS) the opportunity to test whether certain individuals can maintain their employment and self-sufficiency, and decrease reliance on cash and other benefits. It supports individuals at risk of becoming disabled and their employers who benefit from improved worker retention. Kansas participants will be given a full Medicaid-like benefit package that can be used to supplement any benefit plan the person may have through an employer. Many health insurance plans have limits on types of treatment and services. This grant would supplement those caps. “Kansans who continue to work in spite of a debilitating disorder should be supported to remain productive for as long as they are able. This grant is good for the people involved and the economy, and I am pleased that Kansas was chosen as a demonstration state,” Senator Roberts said. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Medicaid and State Operations (CMS). For more information on the Demonstration to Maintain Independence and Employment and other initiatives for people with disabling conditions click here.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $5,000 grant to Thomas County Historical Society in Colby. The grant will fund the preservation of archival collections. It will purchase environmental monitoring equipment, store furniture, and preserve supplies for records related to 19th and 20th century local history. The funds were awarded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. For more information contact the project director, Sue Ellen Taylor, at (785) 462-4590.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced Department of Homeland Security has allocated $21 million for Homeland Security efforts in Kansas. The Homeland Security Grant Program will include six different programs:
• State Homeland Security Program (SHSP): grants to states to prevent, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism
“It is important for the federal government to partner with local law enforcement to protect our communities. Local agencies are the first line of defense against a natural disaster, terrorist attack or any other emergency. This funding will go a long way in protecting Kansans. ” Senator Roberts said. The grants are made available by the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness (SLGCP). For more information click here.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $409,000 in grants were awarded to five Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Haskell/Sublette Fire Department in Sublette: $186,300 for a Firefighting Vehicle The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $341,000 to local Kansas Fire Departments. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Rush County Fire District #4 in LaCrosse:$77,300 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $638,000 grant to the Geary County Unified School District #475 for Head Start in Junction City. The funds allow the Head Start program to operate childcare centers, as well provide training for childcare providers and teachers to become Head Start educators. Head Start programs serve preschool-aged children and their families in low-income areas. Senator Roberts said, “I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the great strides Head Start is making in Kansas communities. Head Start, as the name suggests, enables children in need to learn the basic life and social skills to enter school ready to learn. The program, which serves children all over Kansas, provides them with a stable, encouraging environment that allows them to learn, have fun, be nourished – and nurtured. This is particularly invaluable for a child that may not have the same environment at home.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Children and Families. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and has been a strong advocate of Head Start.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $73,400 in grants were awarded to two Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Wallace Fire District #1 in Wallace: $21,069 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $299,944 grant to Sunflower Telephone Company in Tribune. The project, Community Connect Grant, will give Broadband Internet access to citizens in Tribune, Greeley County. Sunflower Telephone will deploy a relative simple, though very long, broadband network employing existing central offices and telecommunications backbone, and adding one new fiber optic cable transport facility and one new carrier serving area. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased that Greeley County will benefit from these funds. In this day and age, access to the internet is vital to our businesses and our way of life.” Leaders and residents in the area see high-speed access as an engine for economic growth. Broadband Internet access means that agricultural scientists and farmers in this community of 66 residents will be able to track weather patterns, and research or plan accordingly. Students in the area gain the advantage of enriched curriculum including multimedia interactions that will improve their education standing. Local business and government will be able to reduce expenses and increase efficiency. A senior member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, Senator Roberts has been a strong advocate of rural development and increased broadband access in Kansas.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $408,000 in grants were awarded to Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Hazelton Fire Department: $15,398 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety
The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $3.2 million in grants to the State of Kansas to repair and restore Board of Public Utilities (BPU) substation transformers at Quindaro and Barber destroyed by lightning strikes. A series of severe thunderstorms caused this and other significant damages across Kansas on June 12th. Because of numerous severe storms and tornadoes during the summer, on August 3rd President Bush declared portions of Kansas eligible for disaster assistance. With the emergency declaration, communities can apply to FEMA for assistance in repairing public facilities. June 12, 2004 lightning strikes at the Barber transformer were particularly bad, starting a fire that burned for over 12 hours, and leaking 15,000 gallons of oil, necessitating a hazardous materials clean-up. “The funds will be used to speed the restoration of the transformers and to make the substations more disaster resistant in the future,” Senator Roberts said.
WASHINGTON, DC– U. S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $2.9 million in grants for Head Start projects in Hutchinson, Dodge City, Topeka, Manhattan, and Olathe. The funds allow the Head Start program to operate childcare centers, as well provide training for childcare providers and teachers to become Head Start educators. Head Start programs serve preschool-aged children and their families in low-income areas.
• Hutchinson Board of Education, USD #308: $647,740
Senator Roberts said, “I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the great strides Head Start is making in Kansas communities. Head Start, as the name suggests, enables children in need to learn the basic life and social skills to enter school ready to learn. The program, which serves children all over Kansas, provides them with a stable, encouraging environment that allows them to learn, have fun, be nourished – and nurtured. This is particularly invaluable for a child that may not have the same environment at home.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Children and Families. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and has been a strong advocate of Head Start.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $675,000 grant to the Northwest Kansas Education Service Center in Oakley for Head Start. The funds allow the Head Start program to operate childcare centers, as well provide training for childcare providers and teachers to become Head Start educators. Head Start programs serve preschool-aged children and their families in low-income areas. Senator Roberts said, “I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the great strides Head Start is making in Kansas communities. Head Start, as the name suggests, enables children in need to learn the basic life and social skills to enter school ready to learn. The program, which serves children all over Kansas, provides them with a stable, encouraging environment that allows them to learn, have fun, be nourished – and nurtured. This is particularly invaluable for a child that may not have the same environment at home.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Children and Families. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and has been a strong advocate of Head Start.
WASHINGTON, DC– U. S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $2.6 million in grants for Head Start projects in El Dorado, Hiawatha, Hays and Salina. The funds allow the Head Start program to operate childcare centers, as well provide training for childcare providers and teachers to become Head Start educators. Head Start programs serve preschool-aged children and their families in low-income areas.
• Mid-Kansas Community Action Program, Inc. in El Dorado: $233,761
Senator Roberts said, “I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the great strides Head Start is making in Kansas communities. Head Start, as the name suggests, enables children in need to learn the basic life and social skills to enter school ready to learn. The program, which serves children all over Kansas, provides them with a stable, encouraging environment that allows them to learn, have fun, be nourished – and nurtured. This is particularly invaluable for a child that may not have the same environment at home.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Children and Families. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and has been a strong advocate of Head Start.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced three grants totaling over $3 million were awarded for physical education programs in Kansas aimed at making children healthier and decreasing childhood obesity. “As childhood obesity is a growing problem in our nation, these funds are important to ensure proper physical education and nutrition is taught to our children,” Senator Roberts said. “Children need to be healthy in order to learn, and I know these funds will help make that possible.”
• Wichita Public Schools: $1.3 million
These grants will pay for the Carol M. White Education Program, part of the No Child Left Behind Act, which helps local school districts and community-based organizations initiate, expand or improve physical education programs, including after-school programs, for students in grades K-12. Ultimately the program strives to encourage children to eat healthy and exercise. The Department of Education has released a brochure in English and Spanish giving parents advice on healthy lifestyles for children. The brochures are available at: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2004/09/09282004.html The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Education. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $187,302 in grants were awarded to four Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Mitchell County Rural Fire District #3 in Beloit: $80,694 for a Firefighting Vehicle The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts announced today that four Kansas counties will receive a total of $1.1 million in loans for rural rental housing. The funds will be used to repair and rehabilitate general occupancy rural rental housing properties for low- to moderate-income households. “Improving and rehabilitating these homes will enrich our Kansas communities and help those in need,” Senator Roberts said.
• Decatur County: $152,980 for a 16-unit property in Oberlin. Funds will be used to replace floor covering, windows, doors, appliances, walks, and roofs, as well as updating miscellaneous items.
The loans were made available by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a key member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U. S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $345,600 in grants to prevent and reduce drug, alcohol, and tobacco use among youth in Kansas. “I am pleased to announce these grants to devoted local coalitions in Kansas doing critical drug prevention work to protect our communities from the heartache, addiction and crime associated with illegal drug use,” Senator Roberts said.
• $100,000 to Shawnee Regional Prevention and Recovery Services, Inc., Topeka Safe Streets Partnership: This partnership will fund reducing alcohol and marijuana use in Topeka.. The primary strategies include comprehensive neighborhood mobilization, science-based youth programming, active involvement of youth in neighborhood and community, and city-wide systems and policy change. The Mayor and Chief of Police have joined the partnership in order to recruit key leaders in Topeka to participate.
The grants were awarded by the Office of National Drug Control Policy under the Drug-Free Communities Support Program.
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced three separate grants totaling $605,000 for the enhancement of DNA analysis capabilities.
• $398,000 to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to be used to help crime laboratories identify and test backlogged forensic DNA casework samples.
“This grant money will allow our crime labs to make DNA testing more accessible,” Senator Roberts said, “Forensic science is the new frontier for criminal justice. Kansas will be able to use this technology to its full potential.” These grants are part of a program to provide funding to state and local governments with existing crime laboratories that conduct DNA analysis. The grants were awarded by the United States Department of Justice’s National Institute of Justice.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $330,600 grant for self-help housing in several Kansas communities. The funds will be used to provide grants to public or private non-profit organizations to provide assistance in recruitment, screening, loan packaging and related activities for prospective self-help housing applicants. The project will provide funds for Housing Opportunities, Inc. in Great Bend, to coordinate and supervise the construction of 20 homes in Larned, Great Bend, Hoisington, Lyons, Sterling, St. John, Stafford, and Ellinwood. “These new homes will enrich our Kansas communities and help those in need,” Senator Roberts said. The program brings new, well constructed, modest homes to the communities they serve. The program also allows families who otherwise might not be able to afford a home to do so through the contribution of sweat equity. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office. Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $237,600 in grants to Kansas public radio stations. “As a former journalist, I am pleased to announce this investment in our Kansas public radio stations,” Senator Roberts said. “Public radio provides programing that enriches the airwaves with unique cultural, historical and educational content.”
• $59,228 to Radio Kansas at Hutchinson Community College: funds will help to improve the remote control and interconnection facilites of KHCC (Hutchinson-Wichita), KHCD (Salina-Manhattan), and KHCT (Great Bend-Hays) by purchasing a remote control system, computer, microwave radios, antennas and associated equipment.
The grants were awarded by the United States Department of Commerce’s Public Telecommunications Facilities Program. The program supports the expansion and improvement of public telecommunications services by providing matching grants for public facilities that deliver educational and cultural programs across the nation.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $127,334 in grants were awarded to two Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Abilene Fire Department: $22,815 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $38,000 grant to Lyon County Health Department for expansion of medical care services. The grant will fund testing and improvements in the health department, including improved care methods, accessibility, patient support, technology, and organization. The department will be offered technical assistance, training materials, and support from local and state organizations. The Lyon County Health Department offers dental care services, enabling services, mental health/substance abuse services, and primary medical care. The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Bureau of Primary Health Care.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $312,000 to local Kansas Fire Departments. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Soloman Valley Rural Fire District #3:$30,420 for Firefighter Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $46,000 grant for Housing Preservation in McPherson County. The grant was awarded to the South Central Kansas Economic Development District, Inc. in Wichita. The grant will provide funds for 11-low and very-low income families for the repair and rehabilitation of their owner occupied homes. The upgrades will increase accessibility and usefulness of rural homes for the elderly, handicapped and disabled homeowners, enhance energy efficiency, reduce overcrowding and overall enhance the quality of life for residents. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $46,000 grant for Housing Preservation in Stafford County. The grant was awarded to Great Plains Development, Inc. in Dodge City. The grant will provide funds in Stafford County for 8-low and very-low income families for the repair and rehabilitation of their owner occupied homes. The upgrades will increase accessibility and usefulness of rural homes for the elderly, handicapped and disabled homeowners, enhance energy efficiency, reduce overcrowding and overall enhance the quality of life for residents. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced two grants totaling $1 million to mentor Kansas children who have a parent in prison or on parole. It is estimated that there are more than 200,000 children living in Kansas who have a parent in prison or on parole. Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters, Inc. (BBBS) in Wichita will receive $925,000, and the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas in Wichita will receive $75,000 for the same program. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a mentoring program that keeps kids off the streets by matching responsible adults on a one-to-one basis with students who may exhibit low self-esteem, depression, or anger when dealing with a parent in prison or on parole. This program will help 3,000 children who are most at risk to drop out of school and/or become involved in crime. The mentors will provide academic assistance and will facilitate a smooth transition for parents to reconnect with their children after being incarcerated or on parole. Senator Roberts said, “I have always been a long supporter of this Big Brothers Big Sisters and I am pleased Kansas BBBS was awarded money for this critical contribution to our communities. I have seen mentoring thrive and produce dramatic results for our youth in Kansas already, and I know they will continue to do so with this program.” Senator Roberts has been a strong supporter of mentoring in schools. He has secured funding for YouthFriends, a mentoring program based in Kansas City. In 2003, Senator Roberts helped to secure $500,000 to expand Big Brothers Big Sisters to all 105 counties in the state. “Scientists have proven that kids who have mentors are less likely to begin using illegal drugs, consume alcohol, skip school and classes, or engage in acts of violence. I know in Kansas these programs are making a difference,” Roberts said. The grant was awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $93,000 grant to Pratt City Fire Department for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.” The funds are awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $469,717 in grants were awarded to Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Lucas Rural Fire District #2 in Lucas: $52,776 for Firefighting Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts announced today that the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority will receive a $612,000 grant to combat state and local juvenile delinquency. The funds will be used to support state and local delinquency prevention and intervention efforts and juvenile justice system improvements. Those efforts will include planning and administration, compliance monitoring, prevention of juvenile gang involvement, delinquent acts and substance abuse by juveniles, juvenile justice issues for American Indian tribes and the identification of youth at-risk of delinquency. Court system improvements include establishing a system of graduated sanctions, treatment programs and aftercare. Applications for this year’s funding from non-profit groups and governmental agencies from cities and counties across the state have already been submitted to the state agency and are being currently being reviewed. Last year, 14 grants were disbursed from the program and paid for prevention activities like mentoring and school attendance programs, parenting classes and safe, supervised after-school programs. The funds will benefit juveniles of all ages in cities ranging from Olathe, Kansas City and Hays to Norton and Leavenworth. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in concordance to the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 2002.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $224,588 in grants were awarded to two Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• WaKeeney City Fire Department in WaKeeney: $77,400 for a Firefighting Vehicle The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a grant of $1,127,000 has been awarded to the Kansas State Department of Education. The funds will be used to better educate for children with disabilities. The program will target districts with a low level of achievement for children with disabilities in the areas of math and reading. These districts will receive learner-focused support through capacity-building professional development. Students will benefit from an improved educational system and early intervention. “Especially in these times of economic shortfalls in Kansas where budgets are tight, these grants will relieve local districts. I am proud of the superior education offered to children in Kansas and I am confident that our educators will take advantage of this opportunity.” Senator Roberts said. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Education.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced 820,774 in grants were awarded to several Kansas police departments as part of the Local Law Enforcement Block Grants Program. The program provides funds to units of local government to underwrite projects that reduce crime and improve public safety. The funds can be used for the hiring and training of additional law enforcement officers and support personnel, for overtime pay and the purchasing of new equipment and computer technology.
• Dodge City: $10,076
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a grant of $713,300 has been awarded to the Chase County Courthouse in Cottonwood Falls. The funds will be used to install a new central heating and cooling system in the courthouse. This will include upgrades to the electrical components required to operate the new units. Chase County will contribute $6,200 to the project. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $41,112 to Post Rock Family Services, Inc. in Russell to bolster the Drug-Free Communities Support Program. The grant was awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention under the U.S. Department of Justice, and seeks to reduce substance abuse among youth. The funds were awarded under the Drug-Free Communities Act 1997. The Russell County Community Partnership will implement programs and strategies to reduce substance abuse. One of the programs will implement a science based after-school program, “Too Good For Drugs and Violence” in two elementary schools. It will also conduct a community prevention education program on the signs and symptoms of drug abuse and implement a retailer education training for alcohol and tobacco retailers. The partnership will implement youth anger management classes in four schools, and sponsor domestic violence classes for adults.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $225,000 in grants were awarded to the Kansas Department on Aging to improve the quality of life for rural, minority and low income Kansans affected by Alzheimer’s disease. The funds allow the Alzheimer’s Association to increase their overall service capacity in Kansas. The project will focus on art, poetry, music and drama to nurture the remaining strengths of those afflicted as well as expand dementia-specific education, training, and resource access to persons with the disease, caregivers, families, public and private entities and community members. U.S. Senator Pat Roberts is a co-sponsor of The Ronald Reagan Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Act of 2004, a bill to double federal funding for research on Alzheimer ’s disease, a heartbreaking illness affecting 4.5 million Americans and their families. “Alzheimer’s Disease takes a high emotional toll on patients, caregivers and families,” Senator Roberts said. “Unfortunately, one in three Americans knows someone in the throes of this tragic disease. I have talked with many Kansans who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease just as Nancy Reagan cared for our President. They are real heroes and they need support.” The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Aging.
Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Great Bend Fire / EMS in Great Bend: $118,073 for Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds were awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $331,000 in grants were awarded to several Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Morris County Fire District #13 in Wilsey: $32,816 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety The funds are awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a grant of $49,984 has been awarded to Cloud County Community College in Concordia. The funds will be used to prepare students for agricultural careers in the areas of renewable energy and land management. Students will learn about the distribution and the production of energy resources on agricultural land. They will also learn how to increase land values through landscaping management. Faculty members will receive professional development in these areas through industry site visits and advisory meetings. A workshop will also be provided to high school teachers and the general public interested in these fields. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture Grants Program.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts of Kansas today announced $100,000 in rural business grant funds awarded to the city of Belleville. The grant funds will be used to extend city sewer service along the corridor area of Highway US 81. The project will replace failing septic systems that are now serving a restaurant and motel in that area. This project, in conjunction with a recently completed 4-lane highway area, is expected to encourage additional commercial establishments in the area. The project was funded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Division.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $75,000 to the Salina Area Prevention Partnership to bolster the Drug-Free Communities Support Program. The grant was awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention under the U.S. Department of Justice, and seeks to reduce alcohol, tobacco and other drug use among youth ages 12 to 17 years old. The funds were awarded under the Drug-Free Communities Act 1997. The Salina Area Prevention Partnership, which serves Saline County, hopes to achieve this goal by continuing a media campaign to increase youth awareness on alcohol and drug problems, identifying and implementing a community service project focused on raising awareness of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. It will collaborate with other coalitions to promote community change at the local, regional and state levels, and sponsor training for the community at all levels to build awareness on underage drinking, methamphetamine and other drug use.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $101,815 in grants were awarded to several Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improving firefighting efforts and first responder needs in Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Sabetha Fire Department: $32,625 for Operations and Fire Safety The funds are awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $25,000 grant to Rawlins County High School for the purchase of cutting edge technology for the classroom. The grant was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture. It will be matched by Rawlins County High School, totaling $50,000 for the entire project. The project, The Connected Agriculture Classroom, involves a creative and technological approach toward agriculture education. The funds will provide students with a one on one computer ratio by purchasing 20 HP Compaq laptop computers with Windows XP and wireless capabilities. A color laser printer will be purchased to allow students to develop quality projects and papers. A server will be purchased and linked to the Internet to establish an agriculture department web-site that will be created and maintained by students as part of their class work. Students will be able to communicate and exchange information with other agriculture students across the country. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce this grant and I know that with this additional technology students will increase their computer skills and proficiencies. In this technology-driven world, it is imperative for our Kansas students to have access to this technology. This also proves that Agriculture is becoming a highly technical field. These students will now be able to compete and evolve within the agriculture community.” Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $246,255 in grants were awarded to several Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Hays Fire Department: $38,250 for Fire Prevention The funds are awarded by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a grant of $51,000 was awarded to the North Central Regional Planning Commission to continue an economic development planning program in Beloit. The grant provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration will be used to identify gaps in the region’s human resource base or its capital infrastructure that endanger future business success or restrict private investment. The program will then create and implement ways to fill those gaps to enhance economic opportunity and community development.
WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $165,000 in grants were awarded to several Kansas fire departments to improve homeland security. Senator Roberts said, “I am pleased to announce these funds which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments.”
• Bird City Fire Department: $4,905 for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced the availability of more than $1 million in grants to help low-income families in Kansas purchase their first home. To be eligible for assistance, individuals must be first-time home buyers interested in purchasing a house, duplex, townhouse, condominium, cooperative unit or manufactured house. The individual’s income must not exceed 80 percent of the area’s median income. The grants, funded as part of the American Dream Downpayment Initiative, will award individuals up to $10,000 or six percent of the purchase price of a new home. Similar funding will be distributed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to more than 400 state and local governments. Kansas communities who received funds include:
Kansans should contact their local officials for funding requests. For more information click here.
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced the availability of $13.2 million in grants to support value-added business ventures that develop alternative sources of renewable energy. Grants are available to independent producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer or rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures. Priority consideration will be given to grant applications that dedicate at least 51 percent of the project costs to planning activities for a bio-energy project. Senator Roberts is a strong supporter of value-added agriculture. “It is critical that we enhance the financial well-being of producers and the economic performance of our rural communities,” Senator Roberts said. “Value-added agriculture is a win-win-win situation for the environment, the producer and the energy consumer.” Applications must be received no later than July 26, 2004, and awards will be made on a competitive basis. For more information on rural programs, visit USDA’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Senator Robert is a senior member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced that two loans totaling more than $13 million were awarded to two Kansas companies to increase broadband internet access to several counties in western Kansas. The increased access to broadband internet will help farmers, rural residents, and businesses improve their communications. The funds were authorized through the 2002 Farm Bill. Nex-Tech, Inc. in Lenora, KS will receive $5.4 million in loans. They will be used to connect 1,400 new subscribers, to purchase network and access equipment, install both aerial and buried fiber cable plant, construct a prefabricated building to house electronics, and purchase a generator. This company services Phillips, Norton, Ellis, Sheridan, Osborne, and Rooks Counties. H & B Communications, Inc., in Holyrood, KS will receive $7.7 million in loans to connect seven new subscribers, deploy 32 new miles of fiber and copper cable, construct a fiber-to-home system throughout the towns of Bushton, Dorrance, and Holyrood to provide broadband services. The funds will also be used to install fiber facilities between Claflin and Dorrance to complete the fiber ring connecting all three exchanges, and to purchase land for a new warehouse building in Holyrood as well as to purchase a new stand-by generator for all exchanges, among many more projects. This company services Rice, Ellsworth, Russell and Baron Counties. Senator Roberts said, "I am pleased that so many counties in Kansas will benefit from these funds. In this day and age, access to the internet is vital to our businesses and our way of life." The loans were awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Office. "President Bush is committed to ensuring that every household in America has access to broadband by the year 2007," said United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman. "This technology is important for families and businesses to succeed in a global environment." A senior member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, Senator Roberts has been a strong advocate of rural development and increased broadband access in Kansas.
WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $10 million in grants to Head Start programs in Wichita, Salina, and Arkansas City.
Child Care Association of Wichita/Sedgwick County - $4,960,881- Head Start and Early Head Start Senator Roberts said, "I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the great strides Head Start is making in Kansas communities. Head Start, as the name suggests, enables children in need to learn the basic life and social skills to enter school ready to learn. The program, which serves children all over Kansas, provides them with a stable, encouraging environment that allows them to learn, have fun, be nourished - and nurtured. This is particularly invaluable for a child that may not have the same environment at home." The funds were awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Children and Families.
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced the availability of nearly $94 million in grants to improve young children's preparation for reading. Local education agencies and public, non-profit or private organizations serving preschool-age children are qualified to apply. This Early Reading First Grant program supports local efforts to enhance the oral language, cognitive and early reading skills of young children - especially those from low-income families. The grants are administered by the U.S. Department of Education. "Especially in these times of economic shortfalls in Kansas where budgets are tight, these grants will give added emphasis to early reading education, starting each of our children out on the right path. I am proud of the superior education offered to children in Kansas and urge our educators to take advantage of this opportunity." Senator Roberts said. Reading First was passed into law in 2001 and centers on the following priorities:
The pre-application deadline is April 22nd, 2004. As a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Senator Roberts is a strong advocate of investing in education. Senator Roberts has introduced legislation to improve the quality of math and science education, supports fully funding the Individuals with Disabilities Act and has fought to preserve the quality of the Headstart program.
WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $3.7 million to the State Veterans Home in Ft. Dodge and to the Kansas State Veterans Home in Winfield . Kansas State Veterans Home in Winfield will received $2.6 million in federal assistance for general renovations and small construction. Some of these projects include the replacement of the heating and cooling system, a severe weather shelter, and roof replacement. The State Veterans Home in Ft. Dodge will receive $1.1 million in federal assistance to upgrade the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, lighting upgrades, and replace the security and fire alert systems. Senator Roberts said, "I am pleased that Kansas State and Ft. Dodge have been awarded these important grants. There is nothing more important than ensuring high quality facilities that care for the men and women who have fought for our country." The grants were awarded by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a grant of $25,600 and a loan of $124,400 to the Great Bend Child Day Care Association. The funds will be used to purchase an existing building that the recipient is currently using as a child care facility. Most of the money will be used for the real estate purchase, with the remaining funds being used for minor modifications and equipment. For more information on the facility or program, contact Kelly Higgins, president of the Great Bend Child Day Care Association at (620) 792-5111. The grant and loan were awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture's Office of Rural Development.
WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced the availability of nearly $1 million for Teaching American History grants for local education agencies (LEAs) and charter schools to apply to improve history instruction in Kansas’ classrooms. The Teaching American History grant program supports three-year projects for teacher professional development with an emphasis on knowledge, understanding and appreciation for American history. Projects must be in partnership with organizations that have extensive knowledge of American history, including libraries, museums, nonprofit history or humanities organizations and higher education institutions. Applicants must file an intent-to-apply by February 5, with the deadline for grant applications set for March 2nd, 2004. “Especially in these times of economic shortfalls in Kansas where budgets are tight, these grants will relieve local districts. I am proud of the superior education offered to children in Kansas and I am confident that our educators will take advantage of this opportunity.” Senator Roberts said. The Teaching American History Grant is open to any LEA including state-recognized charter schools that work with an institution of higher education, a non-profit history/humanities organization, library or museum to create innovative history teaching programs. As a key member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Senator Roberts is a strong advocate of investing in education. Senator Roberts has introduced legislation to improve the quality of math and science education and recently introduced legislation to provide greater tax relief for teachers that spend their own money on supplies for the classroom. To request an application package please contact: Education Publications Center, P.O. Box 1398, Jessup, MD 20794 or at http://www.ed.gov.
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts announced that late last night, the Senate passed the Conference Report to H.R. 2754, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2004 containing important investments for Kansas. The bill now goes to the president to be signed into law. “Projects for flood damage reduction and water quality are a significant investment in Kansas’ infrastructure,” Senator Roberts said. “These projects make a difference in people’s daily lives and improve our communities.” The following is a list of the Kansas projects Senator Roberts personally worked to include:
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry today announced that the Senate passed the Agriculture Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2004 including important projects for Kansas. The bill now goes to a conference committee with the House version of the bill. “I am pleased projects important to the Kansas economy and our farmers and ranchers are included in this year’s bill,” Senator Roberts said. “I urge the members of the conference committee to support as much funding as possible for USDA’s homeland security funding request and the Dole/McGovern International School Lunch program. Both of these programs are vital to our ongoing war against terrorism. “The USDA homeland security funds will support the rapid response animal and plant health diagnostics networks established last year by USDA,” Senator Roberts said. “These networks will allow us to respond quickly to any animal or disease outbreak that occurs - whether naturally occurring or intentionally introduced.” “The Dole/McGovern program often provides the only meal that many students - particularly those in the Middle East - receive each day. Young girls go to school so they can receive these meals,” Senator Roberts said. “They gain an education and it will eventually help to bring greater stability to that part of the world. Young boys go to schools where they can receive a meal and instruction in math and science instead of radicalism and extremism.” Among the total $9.3 million appropriated for Kansas, the Committee included $1.2 million for the following projects Senator Roberts personally worked to include:
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Senator Roberts Announces $4.5 Million in Funds for Electrical Improvements to 7 Kansas Counties