$2,809 given to Elk Mound Fire District via AgStar Emergency Response Equipment Grant
The AgStar Fund for Rural America, the corporate giving program of AgStar Financial Services, ACA, recently awarded $2,809 to Elk Mound Fire District to purchase a remote area lighting system and flashing traffic cones.
“Thanks to this generous grant, we were able to purchase new equipment that will give us increased visibility on roadways both during the day and at night. Working in areas where there is vehicle traffic always poses a significant risk, so we need to take every measure possible to make sure we can keep our crew safe,” said Lt. Colin Feuster.
The grant was given as part of the Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program, which supports rural areas by funding emergency response equipment for volunteer fire, rescue or ambulance departments. This year AgStar increased the amount awarded through the program with 54 volunteer fire, rescue and ambulance squads received grants totaling $151,820.
“There is a great need for emergency response support, especially in rural communities. Budget restraints make it difficult for departments to purchase and update critical equipment,” says John Monson, chair of the AgStar Fund for Rural America’s Board of Trustees. “This program allows us to support volunteer departments by making sure they have the equipment and gear they need to effectively serve and protect their communities.”
The Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program allows rural departments in AgStar’s service area to apply for grants up to $3,000. Since the program started in 2006, AgStar has awarded more than $1,033,433 to organizations in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Since its inception in 2001, the AgStar Fund has donated more than $5 million to organizations working to improve the future of rural America. Applications considered for funding and support must align with the Fund’s mission of “enhancing life in agriculture and rural America.”
About AgStar
AgStar Financial Services, ACA, headquartered in Mankato, Minn., employs more than 600 full-time team members. The company is part of the national Farm Credit System and has a public mission to serve 69 counties in Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. AgStar’s industry specialization, client segments and market delivery systems result in diversification nationwide. The company has expertise in the corn, soybean, swine, dairy and bio-energy industries. AgStar has developed successful programs in loans, leases, crop insurance, consulting and rural home mortgages. As a value-added financial services cooperative, AgStar allocates patronage dividends to its 14,000 stockholders. The company is also committed to giving back to rural residents, organizations and communities through AgStar’s Fund for Rural America. Visit www.AgStar.com for more information.
