WASHINGTON – The University of Southern Maine in Portland will receive $256,387 in funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support nurse education programs.

“With a protracted shortage in skilled nursing facing the nation, this substantial funding will provide the support the University of Southern Maine needs to further its nurse education programs,” said U.S. Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins in a joint statement. “Coupled with other initiatives to assist nurses with their student loans and encourage young people to pursue careers in nursing, we hope federal support can mark a turning point for these dedicated professionals who make such a difference for Americans – one life at a time.”

The $256,387 DHHS grant, distributed through the Bureau of Health Professions, is provided under the Basic Nurse Education and Practice Program, which is designed to strengthen nurse education programs and increase the diversity of those pursuing careers in nursing, while encouraging enrollment in baccalaureate nursing programs. The initiative is specifically aimed at improving access to health care for medically-underserved communities, meeting the growing challenge of care for high-risk populations like those with HIV-AIDS, substance abuse problems, the homeless or victims of domestic violence.