“The Delta Regional Authority is a unique federal and state grant partnership program that provides millions of dollars every year to poverty-stricken areas in the impoverished Delta region,” said Ross. “In fact, last year the DRA awarded over $7.5 million to 69 applicants. I encourage all the counties in my district to apply for this crucial funding.” 

The Delta Regional Authority (DRA) is a federal-state grant partnership that provides funding for economically distressed areas in eight states.  The DRA  provides grants that enhance infrastructure development, make transportation improvements, foster business development and provide job training services. Federal law mandates that at least 75 percent of DRA funds must be invested in distressed communities and/or poverty-stricken areas, and 50 percent of that funding must be used for transportation and basic infrastructure improvements.

More information and applications may be obtained through the DRA’s website, www.dra.gov <http://www.dra.gov>, by e-mailing pre-app.team@dra.gov <mailto:pre-app.team@dra.gov>, or by calling 1-800-GO-TO-DRA.  Potential applicants may also submit their request in writing by writing to DRA 2004 Federal Grant Program - Pre-Application Team, Delta Regional Authority, 236 Sharkey Avenue - Suite 400, Clarksdale, MS  38614.