Press Release

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce More Than $1.5 Million for Building Renovations, Improved Health Services in Niagara County

May 8, 2014

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced a $1,523,000 loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for Palliative Home Care of Niagara Inc., a subsidiary of Niagara Hospice in Niagara County. This federal funding will be used to purchase and renovate the former Shipman Printing plant into a storefront that will be used to provide health care equipment and services for the chronically ill, elderly and disabled. 

“We must do everything we can to take care of the most vulnerable among us,” said Schumer. “This federal investment will help a Niagara County organization deliver higher quality care to our treasured seniors and those suffering from chronic illnesses. It helps ensure that Niagara’s elderly and ill will have the medical services and equipment they need to improve their quality of life.”

“This is an important investment for Niagara County,” Senator Gillibrand said. “These federal funds can help improve health services for seniors and disabled New Yorkers, and help this local business grow and serve more local health facilities. And by renovating an existing building, we can help bring new economic energy to our community, and create the construction jobs to get it done.”

“We are excited that the USDA in conjunction with our Federal Representatives were able to fund this project,” said John Lomeo, President and CEO. “Our goal is to resurrect this building and property to the distinction it deserves being located on the gateway to the world’s greatest natural tourist attraction.  In doing so, Liberty Home Care, a NYS Licensed Home Care Agency and medical equipment provider will be able to expand its community service reach.  As more and more health services will be provided in the home, this building will support those necessary services to help individuals age in place.  There’s no place like home regardless of your illness.  Much appreciation extended to the staff of the USDA for their support and to Senator’s Gillibrand and Schumer as well as Congressman Collins for their unwavering support.” 

Palliative Home Care of Niagara Inc., is a medical servicing company that provides equipment for nursing homes and hospitals. The equipment includes: wheelchairs, lifts, crutches and hospital beds.  This federal funding will be used to purchase and renovate a facility located at 2424 Niagara Falls Blvd to house health care equipment for residents throughout Niagara County and to be used as a headquarters for Niagara Hospice’s homecare and Medicaid case management programs.

The USDA Rural Development programs provide loans and grants to ensure that the necessary investments are made to protect the environment and expand economic opportunity in communities in rural areas.