Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry (R-NC-10) announced $1 million in a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development loan to the J. Iverson Riddle Institute in Burke County. The funds come from Rural Development’s Community Facility Direct Loan Program and will be repaid over a 40 year period.

“The Riddle Institute is one of the leading facilities in the country providing care and training for individuals with disabilities,” Congressman McHenry stated. “The institute’s work truly shows that life is precious in every stage and regardless of disabilities. These professionals seek to find that spark that each person has – that special gift or ability that helps enhance their quality of life.”

The loan will go to fund the Riddle Institute’s Agro-Enterprise Project, a program that will provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to work in an agricultural setting, learning skills that will improve their quality of life. The project establishes programs providing opportunity, independence, competence and confidence while contributing to the economy of the local community.

Congressman McHenry plans to visit the Riddle Institute soon to personally congratulate the staff and clients.