Washington, DC - U.S. Senator Jim Risch announced today the appointment of longtime staffer Matt Ellsworth as the new Statewide Grants Coordinator for his office.  Ellsworth begins his full-time work in the position later this spring.

"I appreciate Matt's willingness to take on this brand new position within my office.  With the financial difficulties local governments and private entities are facing, there is a need to assist them in finding grants and other solutions to build stronger communities," Risch said.  "Matt will spearhead this new service offered by my office and help Idahoans in becoming aware of and better competing for these funding opportunities."

"There are a variety of sources out there to fund critical needs, but oftentimes entities are not aware of these opportunities or adequately prepared for the intense competition they will be facing for the funds," said Ellsworth.  "I look forward to assisting local governments and other groups as they identify and compete for the available funding to meet their needs."

Ellsworth will be based in Risch's Boise office and can be reached at (208) 342-7985.

Risch had previously announced that State Senator Melinda Smyser will take over the regional director position currently held by Ellsworth.

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