Mo. fire department buys fire truck with grant

The Daily Statesman

ESSEX, Mo. — The Essex Fire Department just financed a new truck through a pair of government programs.

Representatives from USDA Rural Development visited Essex last week to commemorate the receipt of the funds for the purchase. Rural Development officials approved a Community Facility Direct Loan of $29,300 and a Community Facility Grant of $8,700.

The funding goes to the Essex Improvement Corporation, a non-profit organization with a sole purpose of receiving government money and using it for city projects. "Rural fire departments often operate with volunteers and aging equipment," said Anita Dunning, State Director for Rural Development. "Yet, these fire departments have the same responsibility as urban and suburban departments; protecting life and property."

Full story: Essex purchases fire truck through grant/loan funds