Local schools, fire departments and community centers were awarded nearly $100,000 Friday from the Cullman County Community Development Commission.

CCCDC Chairman Champ Crocker presented the checks. State Sen. Garlan Gudger, Rep. Scott Stadhagen, and CCCDC members Bradley Williams and Josh Speakman also attended the event at the Cullman County Economic Development office.

Those receiving money included:

— $9,369 to Welti School for virtual reality viewers.

— $12,000 to Cullman Christian School for updated curriculum.

— $7,992 to Dodge City VFD for a cutting/extrication tool.

— $12,000 to East Point Community Center for facility upgrades.

— $10,000 to Camp Meadowbrook to upgrade water lines.

— $9,799.99 to Cold Springs K-8 for virtual reality viewers.

— $12,000 to Good Samaritan Health Clinic for medication/supplies for uninsured patients.

— $12,000 to Crane Hill Fire Department and $12,000 to Trimble Volunteer Fire Department for a marine rescue boat.

“I’m very thankful to be able to work with Cullman County Economic Development and local representatives to help grow our community and its resources,” Crocker said.

Stadhagan said it’s important to recognize organizations like the CCCDC and Cullman County Economic Development that are striving to bring positive change to the community.

Gudger said Cullman County is blessed to have the TVA in-lieu of tax money that is able to be distributed directly through grants to the communities.

“The CCCDC board is appointed by the state legislative delegation and their grants are an investment into the people that make up this county,” Gudger said. “By volunteers and civic-minded people working hard throughout this community, Cullman is what the people make it and multiple projects that are consistently funded show Cullman County’s commitment to be the best.”