West Sacramento, Calif. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 awarded $1.3 million to Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) with options to renew funding annually for the next four years. The EPA contract will utilize RCAC’s Tribal Circuit Rider services in the agency’s Region 9, which encompasses the Pacific Southwest. The RCAC Tribal Circuit Rider program serves about 100 federally recognized Tribal communities throughout Arizona, California and Nevada.
Founded more than 30 years ago, the RCAC Tribal Circuit Rider program is the oldest and largest Tribal-specific program of its kind. Circuit riders are based in strategic points across the western states. Circuit riders partner with Tribal staff to provide safe water to their communities; dispose of wastewater properly; have the training and practical experience to achieve long-term operational sustainability; and withstand future climate challenges, such as extreme temperatures and drought.
“RCAC strongly supports Tribal self-determination and rights to maintain clean water, air and lands as they see fit,” said Suzanne Anarde, RCAC’s Chief Executive Officer. “This EPA Region 9 contract enables us to continue working with Tribal communities to ensure reliable access to safe drinking water.”
Founded in 1978, RCAC provides training, technical and financial resources and advocacy so rural and Indigenous communities can achieve their goals and visions. RCAC serves rural communities in 13 western states and western Pacific islands. Services are available to communities with populations of fewer than 50,000, other nonprofit groups, Tribal organizations, farmworkers, colonias and other specific populations. RCAC staff provides direct services in collaboration with local and community partnerships in three program areas: affordable housing, environmental services, and lending. RCAC provides loans, including small business loans, technical and economic development assistance to rural communities and nonprofit organizations in its service region. About RCAC’s Loan Fund
Contact:
Julia Helmreich, director
Communications and Development
Cell phone (916) 529-7563
jhelmreich@rcac.org
