.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Community Services has approved a $600,000 grant for the Southeast Kentucky Economic Development Corporation (SKED) to create 40 jobs in Cumberland, Kentucky. SKED will utilize these funds to execute and oversee a business expansion and equipment purchase loan to Southeastern Kentucky Rehabilitation Industries, Inc (SEKRI).

“This is great news for the working families of Harlan County,” said Rogers. “These funds will go a long way toward putting people back to work and helping families in these challenging economic times. SEKRI is a local success story and with these funds this locally-focused enterprise will receive the financing and technical assistance necessary to grow, compete, and perform at the highest level. When given the chance, our businesses and our hardworking people can produce top quality goods and services. SKED has done it again.”

SKED is a non-profit organization charged with encouraging economic development and job creation throughout the 42-county area in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. Begun by Rogers and likeminded business and community leaders in the region 23 years ago, SKED is also one of the key components of The Center for Rural Development in Somerset.

SEKRI is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is to provide personnel, facilities and services for persons with disabilities, enabling them to obtain and maintain meaningful employment opportunities. SEKRI manufactures clothing for the U.S. military and have annual sales exceeding $35,000,000.

Rogers currently serves as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. Through this role, Rogers supports important initiatives in the Fifth Congressional District.