USDA approves $180K Community Facility Direct Loan for Penquis Mental Health
DOVER-FOXCROFT — USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel has announced that Penquis Mental Health Association has been selected to receive a $180,000 Community Facility Direct Loan.
Penquis Mental Health Association will use the $180,000 to purchase an existing residential facility that will provide services for people in recovery from behavioral health challenges. This project will provide a facility for the applicant’s Adult Residential Supported Living program. The program provides people with a stable living environment that allows individuals to focus on personal growth and other dimensions such as friendships, employment, long-term recovery, and full community inclusion.
“USDA Rural Development is a dedicated and committed partner,” Penquis Mental Health Association CEO Richard Brown said. “The relationship between Penquis Mental Health Association and USDA Rural Development spans 30 years of working collaboratively to promote the quality of life for some of Maine’s most vulnerable populations. Penquis Mental Health Association and the Charlotte White Center would not be what they are today without the dedication and staunch support of USDA Rural Development. The agency has always there for us when we need a strong, community-based partner.”
USDA Rural Development has provided Penquis Mental Health Association with $4.1 million since 1981, supporting mental healthcare and intellectual disability services in Maine. In addition to supporting adults and children facing serious life challenges these investments have helped to create over 200 jobs in the region.
“This investment in health care services in our rural communities is critical, and supports President Obama’s commitment to address mental illness,” Manuel said. “I am pleased that this funding will assist individuals in Penobscot and Piscataquis Counties with mental health services which will assist them in living life to its fullest potential.”