Last week, Randolph Electric Membership Corporation (REMC) officials presented state and local fire representatives with checks to assist with purchasing new fire engines. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded the REMC grants for each fire truck – $225,000 to Robbins Fire Rescue in Moore County and $360,000 to the Ulah Volunteer Fire Department in Randolph County – through the Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant program. “We are thankful to receive this funding from Randolph EMC,” said Charlotte King, fire chief of Ulah VFD. “This new fire engine will benefit the residents and businesses of southern Randolph County, including Seagrove, Asheboro, and neighboring fire districts. This will enhance our emergency response capabilities.” These grants are combined with a 20% match from the REMC and will be loaned to the recipients at a zero-point interest. As these funds are repaid, REMC will receive the payments into its Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund for lending toward future projects. “Randolph EMC cannot repay our firefighters for the sacrifice, courage, and strength they embody every day,” said Nicole Arnold, communications and public affairs manager for REMC. “But we can play a small part in improving the tools they work with to save the lives of those in danger.”
