Tuesday, Aug 16 2011 3:25PM
President Barack Obama stated recently the White House Rural Council will continue to provide resources to rural communities to help their economies grow.
Recently, the White House Rural Council released a report titled "Jobs and Economic Security for Rural America," which outlines the various issues facing rural Americans today.
The report focuses on five areas of interest affecting rural America - job creation and economic growth, improving healthcare and education access, promoting innovation, expanding outdoor opportunities and supporting veterans and military families.
"This report highlights the importance of understanding some of the specific needs as well as unique opportunities found within rural America," said U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack. "It also presents vital strategies that can and will be used to seize those opportunities and tackle some of the toughest challenges facing our rural communities."
Additionally, President Barack Obama stated his administration is intent on further helping rural communities grow economically.
According to the report, under the Obama administration, more than $6.2 billion in grants was given to rural businesses to expand and create or save hundreds of thousands of jobs.
The council announced it will send representatives to visit numerous states, including Alaska, New Mexico and California, throughout the remainder of 2011 along with various government agencies to discuss rural issues.