For Release: Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

SHAWNEE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL RECEIVES DELTA REGIONAL AUTHORITY GRANT

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the Shawnee Development Council, Inc., has received a $28,000 Faith-Based and Community Initiative grant from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) for projects in Alexander and Pulaski Counties.  The funds will be used to train five nurses to the level of Licensed Practical Nurse, train eight Cairo workers to be Laundry Management, Attendants and Repair Technicians, and make improvements to a manufacturing site in Cairo expected to create jobs in the area. 

"Education and training are vitally important to allow workers to improve their skills, get better jobs and foster economic development in Southern Illinois ," said Costello.  "The DRA has been a valuable resource in helping organizations leverage local and state dollars toward these ends."

Modeled after the Appalachian Regional Commission, the DRA is responsible for developing plans and establishing programs for the economic development of the Delta region.  Sixteen Illinois counties are in the Delta, including Alexander, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Johnson, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Union, White and Williamson. 

Costello is a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Congressional Delta Caucus and has been instrumental in developing the DRA into an effective organization. 

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