U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) announced today the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will be awarding $2.88 million to the Rural Domestic Preparedness Consortium (RDPC) hosted at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU).  RDPC is a nationwide rural training initiative that enables emergency responders in rural areas to access comprehensive homeland security training programs and fill critical security gaps.  EKU serves as the lead institution of a group of colleges across the nation that provides critical training courses for rural first responders and other emergency response stakeholders.  Rogers secured this funding in H.R. 2892, the Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2010.  

“From the severe May flooding to last year’s paralyzing ice storm, we have seen first hand the importance of providing the tools necessary to our rural first responders,” said Rogers.  “No community is immune from the threat of natural or man-made disasters. These funds will go a long way towards ensuring that our local law enforcement, fire, EMS, emergency volunteers and management services are prepared and ready to respond to any circumstance at any time.  Our families will have the peace of mind knowing that our brave first responders have every tool at their disposal in order to protect our communities and keep neighborhoods safe.”

Disaster prevention and response courses in large part developed by the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency are ongoing throughout the country and applied for rural first responders.  Eastern Kentucky University, East Tennessee State University, Iowa Central Community College, Northwest Arkansas Community College, the University of Findlay, in Ohio and North Carolina Central University are the Consortium’s academic partners, each of which has unique capabilities in rural emergency preparedness training. 

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents.  For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.