Salt Rock gets senior center

SALT ROCK -- Cabell County Community Services Organization Inc. has received a $400,000 grant to construct a new senior citizen center in Salt Rock.

The money is from rural development funds, according to Rick E. Rice, state director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Through the Community Facilities programs, assistance is provided to facilities such as libraries, schools, senior centers and first responders, such as ambulance services and hospitals. The funds can go toward construction, operating costs, repairs and equipment.

The funding will allow CCSO to convert the old Childers Grocery on W.Va. 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 senior centers throughout Cabell County.

Rural Development serves as the lead federal entity for such needs and administers program assistance through its housing, business/cooperative, community and infrastructure programs, according to a press release from the Department of Agriculture.

Further information on USDA Rural Development may be obtained by visiting USDA's Web site at www.rurdev.usda.gov.

In West Virginia, call (800) 295-8228 to be put in touch with the appropriate personnel serving your county. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600.