Peterson Announces Becker County DAC will get new bus

(Detroit Lakes , Minn) - Congressman Collin Peterson announced that the Becker County Developmental Achievement Center (DAC) in Detroit Lakes has been awarded a $63,000 low-interest loan through USDA Rural Development to purchase a new bus to transport clients.

“The DAC clients are an important part of the community and accessible transportation is critical to the center’s success,” Peterson said.

The DAC’s old bus was not able to adequately meet the handicap accessibility needs of clients in wheel chairs. The new bus will allow the DAC to serve more clients in wheel chairs and with other special needs. The DAC serves about 75 clients with special needs each day and provides vocational rehabilitation services for local industries. There is also staff available to assist clients with activities and community integration.

In 2007, Rural Development guaranteed a $437,000 loan through State Bank and Trust in Detroit Lakes to finance a 4,000 square-foot addition to the DAC’s headquarters.

“The Becker County DAC provides a valuable service to its clients and businesses in the region,” said Colleen Landkamer, State Director of USDA Rural Development in Minnesota. “This funding will help the Center better meet the needs of its clients and the local businesses that use the DAC’s services.”

USDA Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, business development, and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling the local office in Detroit Lakes at (218) 847-9392, ext. 4, or at www.rurdev.usda.gov/mn.

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