U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) announced today that a $400,000 Community Facility Direct Loan from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been awarded to Cabell County Community Services Organization, Inc., (CCSO) for the construction of a new senior citizens center in Salt Rock, in Cabell County.

“Just as they contributed so much to West Virginia, raising we must help to provide for the needs of our senior citizens,” said Rahall. “More than 15 percent of West Virginians are over the age of 65—the second highest percentage of any state in the Nation. With these funds, CCSO will be able to provide the seniors of Salt Rock and Cabell County an exciting new senior center and the services they deserve.”

The funding will allow CCSO to convert the old Childers Grocery in Salt Rock, located on Route 10, into a 3,000-square-foot senior center, capable of seating and serving as many as 100 visitors. CCSO provides services such as preventative medical care, nutrition advice and guidance, health screenings, exercise classes, and meal-on-wheels to citizens at senior centers located throughout Cabell County.

“Ensuring that the senior citizens of southern West Virginia are well cared for has long been a top priority for me,” said Rahall. “In Congress, I am working hard to address the sky-rocketing cost of healthcare and social services and honor the men and women who, through their compassion and quiet strength, have been role models to us all. This new senior center will provide much-needed care to our oldest residents as they have cared for us.”