Agencies across the country are waiting and wondering if their programs will be on the federal government's chopping block this year. They're hoping a groundswell of public support will help convince Congress to spare their funding.
One of the threatened programs is the USDA's Rural Development Office. It provides grants to businesses that are supporting rural communities and residents.
According to Director of the Alliance for Economic Success Tim Ervin, small grants can make a big difference. Projects the Rural Development Office funds range from revitalizing movie theaters to launching regional recycling programs to creating a senior center.
“They are really an economic backbone for rural communities everywhere,” Ervin said.
Listen above for the full conversation with Ervin.
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