Bizzarro announces $200K state grant for Millcreek Twp.
State funds awarded for project to aid police work, public safety
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro March 13, 2024 | 3:16 PM
ERIE, March 13 – Continuing his work at ensuring Erie law enforcement receives the support they need, state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro announced a grant of $200,000 for Millcreek Township.
“Law enforcement continues to adapt to the needs of our community,” said Rep. Bizzarro, who represents Millcreek and Fairview townships. “Knowing how to better communicate and work with people experiencing a mental health emergency or in crisis helps our officers and it helps ensure the safety of our neighbors and community residents.”
The $200,000 grant supports the Crisis Outreach And Support Team (COAST) Project. The work of the project has included the training of an officer to specialize in mental health crisis response. This includes responding to a person experiencing a mental health emergency and/or substance use concerns and follow-up interaction.
Millcreek Township announced the Millcreek Township Police Department was the first force in the region to secure this type of staff when it received grant funding in 2023.
The grant was announced as part of $13 million in projects approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to combat gun violence and enhance prevention for Pennsylvania youth.
Today’s announcement continues Bizzarro’s efforts to allocate state money to properly fund workforce development, schools, nonprofits, first responders and local businesses in his district and Erie County. So far this year, Bizzarro has helped secure more than $900,000 for Erie County projects. During this 2023-24 legislative session, his team has helped secure $57.9 million in funding for local projects.