Congressman Josh Riley, along with U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, secured $2.634 million in federal funding for critical fire safety and rural health projects in Upstate New York. Riley announced the funding in a statement Monday.
The funding will modernize Margaretville Memorial Hospital’s primary care facilities, build a permanent outpatient clinic for Refuah Health Center in South Fallsburg, and replace a deteriorating firehouse in Guilford.
“In Upstate New York, our first responders and health care workers show up for their neighbors every single day. This funding is about showing up for them,” Riley said. “Families in Margaretville will have better access to care close to home, and South Fallsburg will finally get the permanent clinic it’s needed for years.”
Margaretville Memorial Hospital will use $619,000 to expand exam space, improve patient flow, and enhance telehealth access. Dr. David Lubarsky, President & CEO of WMCHealth, said, “Together, with this infusion of funding into our primary care programs, Congressman Riley and WMCHealth are investing in the long-term health of the families we serve in Margaretville.”
Refuah Health Center in South Fallsburg will receive $1 million to construct a permanent outpatient clinic offering primary care, women’s health, mental health services, and an on-site pharmacy. Chanie Sternberg, Refuah’s CEO, said, “This investment will allow us to reach more families who too often struggle to access essential health care because of distance, transportation, or provider shortages.”
The Guilford Fire District, serving a wide rural area, will get $1.015 million to replace its nearly century-old firehouse. Dee Fuller, Chairperson of the Guilford Board of Fire Commissioners, said, “This funding will help us build a new fire station—one that will provide a safer, more resilient environment for our dedicated members and the people we serve.”
Image: Margaretville Memorial Hospital in Margaretville, NY. (Credit: WMC Health)