Congressman Collin Peterson -- Minnesota's Seventh Congressional District
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2009
CONTACT: 
Allison Myhre/218-731-1657

Pioneer Home to receive USDA loans for new construction

(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congressman Collin Peterson and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced USDA Rural Development is providing $21.5 million for Pioneer Home, Inc. in Fergus Falls, through the Community Facilities program

“This new facility will provide more space and more services that the community is asking for,” Peterson said. “I’m pleased that the Pioneer Home is thinking ahead to meet the needs of the aging population in the Fergus Falls area.” 

Pioneer Home, Inc., a non-profit health care provider, has been selected to receive a $10.75 million Recovery Act direct loan, and a $10.75 million non-Recovery Act guaranteed loan, through USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities program, to construct a 105-bed nursing home to improve access to quality health care in Otter Tail and Wilkin counties. The new facility will feature modern equipment for staff and a common area where residents may interact. 

“With USDA’s support, Pioneer’s vision of a care center that is responsive to the evolving needs of seniors will be realized. The new replacement facility includes more private resident rooms and community gathering spaces that will help us offer more clinical, wellness and quality of life programs. On behalf of our future residents, we are absolutely delighted to be moving ahead with this all important financing in place,” said Pioneer CEO John Richards.

“Revitalizing rural communities and building a 21st century economy is a promise the Obama Administration is committed to delivering and these Recovery Act investments will help build quality health care facilities and first-responder training centers in small towns and cities across the country,” said Vilsack.

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development, and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development’s website at www.rurdev.usda.gov.

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