The Gerry Volunteer Fire Department was presented a $154,000 ceremonial check from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

            The check represents a $124,000 loan and a $30,000 grant that Rural Development is providing to help the Department buy a fire truck.

“This is great news for the residents and hard-working volunteer firefighters in the Town of Gerry,” said Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27).  “This federal funding, for a new fire truck, will help provide more efficient fire service to the local community and a new firefighting tool to the dedicated volunteers who serve in Gerry.”

"Helping New York’s rural communities purchase the equipment needed to protect life and property is one of the primary missions of our Community Facilities program,” said State Director Brennan. “The new fire truck will improve the department’s emergency service, enabling it to better protect life and property in the community.” 

            “In order to do their jobs properly, our fire departments must have adequate equipment,” said State Sen. Cathy Young (Senate District 57). “The funding for this new fire truck will assist these firefighters in doing what they do best: protecting our communities.”

            USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. In fiscal year 2007, USDA Rural Development invested more than $262 million in New York, raising its total investment in the state to more than $1.5 billion since 2001. Further information on rural programs is available by contacting the State Office at (315) 477-6400 or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ny.