Glacier Country News

Congressman Ryan Zinke has successfully secured a $1,088,000 grant to fund the modernization of two county-owned nursing home facilities in Ennis and Sheridan, Montana. Speaking about the grant, Rep. Zinke emphasized the importance of supporting seniors in rural communities, stating, “The cost of living keeps increasing under Biden and keeping Montana families together is getting tough. It’s even more difficult for seniors in rural communities like Ennis and Sheridan, which is exactly why I was happy to work with the Madison County Commissioners and the team at the senior living facilities to secure this important grant funding.”

Madison County Commissioners and local stakeholders gathered for a ceremonial check presentation to celebrate the award of the grant. Dan Allhands, Chairman of the Madison County Commissioners, expressed gratitude for the funding opportunity, which will directly impact and improve the lives of community members, residents, families, staff, management, and volunteers. Allhands highlighted that the funds will be used to renovate and improve facilities, as well as to purchase new electric beds and equipment for the nursing homes.

The grant will finance various upgrades and renovations, including the replacement of 71 beds from the 1970s, repaving of parking lots, ADA standard improvements for ambulance and pedestrian egress entryways, kitchen renovations to expand meal capacity, exterior recreation and exercise space renovations, and the construction and equipping of a technology lab with accessible computers, monitors, and televisions for residents.

The funding was made possible through the U.S. House of Representatives Community Project Funding policy, which allows Members of the House to propose local projects for funding. Congressman Zinke's projects, including the grant for Madison County, were approved by the House Appropriations Committee, the full House of Representatives, and included in a joint funding package approved by both the House and Senate and signed by the President.

The successful securing of the million-dollar grant signifies a significant investment in the well-being and quality of life for seniors in Ennis and Sheridan, Montana, showcasing effective government spending and the tangible impact of taxpayer dollars at work.