News Center

Conklin: Nearly $900,000 secured to boost Centre County resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth

(Dec 18, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 18 – More than $892,000 is coming back to Centre County to bolster programs and resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth, reduce recidivism and fund probation and parole services, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin, D-Centre, said five grants awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will support essential programs for those served by the criminal justice system. “A lot of hard work and vigilance goes into protecting the rights of crime victims, supporting at-risk youth, and providing effective probation and parole services,” Conklin said. “The new funding will help keep essential programs in place so that our county’s dedicated judicial, law enforcement, medical and social service professionals can continue delivering the best possible services.” Conklin said the funding by source includes: JJDCP – State Violence and Delinquency Prevention Program Funds $391,764 to the Pennsylvania State University for implementation of the Standardized Program Evaluation Protocol, which helps determine effectiveness of juvenile delinquency prevention methods. CACAC- State Endowment Act – Prevention Funds $200,000 to Centre County Youth Service Bureau for Project Safe and Smart, which educates youth and parents about child sexual abuse and body safety. VSAC – Centre County $147,757 to Centre County Commissioners Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 17, 2024) Central PA Delegation

Below are multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Community and Economic Development: Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program Who May Apply: Community-based non-profit organizations with a history of at least 3 years operating experience, educational institutions, and non-profit economic development organizations with a history of at least 3 years operating experience. Use: Creation or support of a Business Assistance Service Center for the purpose of serving small, historically disadvantaged businesses. Funds: $20 million in funding was appropriated in the 2024/25 state budget. Application Deadline: January 22, 2025 More information: DCED Website Council on the Arts: Entry to Arts Organizations and Arts Programs (EAOAP) Who May Apply: Non-profit agencies with a history of at least two years of consistent arts programming in Pennsylvania and an annual average arts revenue over $200,000. Use: Entry track is the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts’ (PCA) point of entry for organizations or programs to the AOAP. Applicants must apply in Entry track until recommended for AOAP, which is based on panel review and assessment totals Funds: Grants totaling $5,000 will be awarded. Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 More information: Arts Website Council on the Arts: Arts Read more

 

Hill-Evans announces funding for local Chesapeake Bay cleanup efforts; reappointment to Chesapeake Bay Commission

(Dec 17, 2024) Rep. Carol Hill-Evans

The York County Planning Commission was awarded $404,219 in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection through 2025 Countywide Action Plan (CAP) Implementation Grants, awarded to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed to reduce pollution and restore local streams, rivers, and lakes. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El lauds grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

(Dec 11, 2024) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Dec. 11 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El said he is pleased to report a state and federal investment in keeping the Chesapeake Bay Watershed clean from its tributaries in Lancaster County. The Lancaster County Conservation District was awarded more than $5.92 million in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection. "This significant investment is a promise to our natural environment and represents a commitment to protecting a vital ecosystem, supporting our economy, and preserving a new legacy of investments for our part of the watershed," said Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster. The DEP awarded grants through the 2025 Countywide Action Plan Implementation Grants to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Pennsylvania has made historic progress in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Earlier this year, the Shapiro Administration announced that for the first time in history, the Chesapeake Bay showed steady overall improvement, earning a C+ grade from the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Report Card – the highest grade ever awarded to the overall health of the bay since the report was created. The 2025 CAP Implementation Grants include $9.6 million from the state Environmental Stewardship Fund and $14.4 million in federal EPA funding, including $7.1 million in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds to support counties’ Read more

 

Conklin: Advanced Powder Products secures nearly $3 million to rebuild Rush Township facility damaged in fire

(Dec 05, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 5 – Two low-interest loans totaling $2.9 million will allow major area employer Advanced Powder Products to rebuild its Rush Township production facility that was severely damaged by fire last year, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding to the metal injection molding and 3D metal printing manufacturer includes a 15-year, $2.25 million loan at a 3.75% reset interest rate and a 7-year, $700,928 loan at a 4.75% fixed interest rate – both awarded through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority. “The new funding is terrific news for APP and our entire region,” Conklin said. “The 2023 fire to the Rush Township facility caused extensive damage, interrupted production, affected jobs and resulted in heavy losses. The new funding will allow them to build a new 29,000-square-foot production facility at their Enterprise Drive location and purchase new precision machinery, robotics and other automated equipment. “It’s going to be exciting seeing this dynamic manufacturer rebuild to former capacity – and seeing those jobs and economic benefits flowing back to our region.” Conklin said the project will result in the creation of 15 new jobs and the retention of 165 full-time jobs. Administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development, PIDA provides low-interest loans and lines of credit for eligible businesses Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 04, 2024) Central PA Delegation

Broadband Development Authority: Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program Who May Apply: Cooperative organizations, non-profit organizations, public-private partnerships, private companies, public or private utility companies, public utility districts, municipalities or units of local government, internet service providers registered through the FCC Use: Deploying and/or upgrading broadband network facilities, data collection, broadband mapping and broadband planning Funds: $1,161,778,242 in federal funding pursuant to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 is available. Application Deadline: January 21, 2025 More information: PBDA Website Department of Community and Economic Development: Local Share Account Philadelphia Who May Apply: Community Development Corporations, economic development organizations and redevelopment authorities, business improvement districts/neighborhood improvement districts, non-profit organizations with a 501(c) designation, the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia. Any eligible organization must be located in Philadelphia. Use: Economic development projects, neighborhood revitalization projects, community improvement projects, projects in the public interest. Any eligible project must be located in Philadelphia. Funds: Grant amounts will vary based on the specific project requirements but are limited to a minimum request/award of $10,000 and a maximum Read more

 

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security

(Dec 03, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 3 – Schools in the 77 th Legislative District will benefit from more than $900,000 in new funding for school security and mental health resources, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grants – awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency from funding secured in the 2024-25 budget – include nearly $760,000 in noncompetitive grants to public schools and $148,000 in competitive grants to nonpublic schools. “A lot goes into maintaining a strong school security plan, from policies and protocols like reporting and safety drills to resources like personnel, equipment and building modifications, to programs and supports addressing mental health,” Conklin said. “Thanks to this new funding, our schools will have the resources needed to ensure students and staff have the safety, peace of mind and supportive environment they deserve.” Conklin said noncompetitive grants to public schools include: State College Area School District – $228,146. Tyrone Area School District – $131,554. Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District – $130,786. Bald Eagle Area School District – $128,948. Centre Learning Community Charter School – $70,000. Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School – $70,000. Competitive grants to nonpublic schools include: Soaring Heights School State Read more

 

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security

(Dec 03, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 3 – Schools in the 77 th Legislative District will benefit from more than $900,000 in new funding for school security and mental health resources, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grants – awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency from funding secured in the 2024-25 budget – include nearly $760,000 in noncompetitive grants to public schools and $148,000 in competitive grants to nonpublic schools. “A lot goes into maintaining a strong school security plan, from policies and protocols like reporting and safety drills to resources like personnel, equipment and building modifications, to programs and supports addressing mental health,” Conklin said. “Thanks to this new funding, our schools will have the resources needed to ensure students and staff have the safety, peace of mind and supportive environment they deserve.” Conklin said noncompetitive grants to public schools include: State College Area School District – $228,146. Tyrone Area School District – $131,554. Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District – $130,786. Bald Eagle Area School District – $128,948. Centre Learning Community Charter School – $70,000. Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School – $70,000. Competitive grants to nonpublic schools include: Soaring Heights School State Read more

 

Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair

(Nov 18, 2024) Central PA Delegation

READING, Nov. 18 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that he will host a third installment of his Thanksgiving Resource Fair to help families in need enjoy a festive meal and get access to state programs and services. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 at 206 S. Ninth St., Reading, 19602. Guzman explained that the event will feature a turkey giveaway, fresh produce and information about local programs and services. “ I am thrilled to celebrate the third edition of the fair; it’s just gotten bigger and better. I am proud to be able to support even more families this year,” Guzman said. “This time of the year can be challenging for the most vulnerable members of our community, and I want to make sure that families in need have a great meal. Another key aspect of this event is that we will be connecting individuals to state programs that are available to them,” Guzman said. “Whether a family is struggling to get affordable health insurance, pay for groceries or utility bills, this event will be a perfect opportunity to learn more about these benefits. My staff will be there ready to assist constituents.” “This fair is about making the holiday season brighter for our neighbors and bringing the spirit of giving and sense of community to life,” he said. Interested residents may contact Guzman’s Read more

 

Conklin: State College Borough secures $250k for transit station study

(Nov 18, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 18 – A $250,000 grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development will fund a comprehensive study of State College Borough’s 50-year-old transit station, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding will lay the groundwork for important upgrades and improvements to make the station more accessible and inclusive. “Easy access to transportation is essential for quality of life, but many of our older facilities, including State College Borough’s 50-year-old transit stop, are not as accessible and user friendly as they could be for seniors and residents with disabilities,” Conklin said. “The new funding will allow the borough to study the station’s current design and determine what upgrades and improvements can be made, with an eye toward making this essential transportation hub larger, more traffic-friendly and more inclusive for all riders.” Conklin said that after the study is completed, the borough will have the information it needs to move forward with project work. More information about DCED is available here: https://dced.pa.gov/ Read more

 

Conklin urges area schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant

(Nov 15, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 15 – Citing cost savings, cleaner energy and jobs, state Rep. Scott Conklin is encouraging school districts and other eligible public schools in Centre County to apply for the state’s recently opened Solar for PA Schools Grant Program. Conklin, who co-sponsored legislation to establish the program, said schools can obtain state grants covering up to 50% of project costs and that federal assistance under the Inflation Reduction Act can reduce those costs even further, resulting in a minimal investment that yields huge benefits. “Solar can be a great money-saver for our schools,” Conklin said. “Converting or partially converting school buildings to solar power helps the bottom line by lowering energy costs – which are among the largest expenses school districts face – and making those costs more predictable. Other schools that have installed solar technology are already saving money, which they’re able to invest back into the classroom. “Beyond cutting costs and saving energy, solar power increases our production of renewable energy and brings cleaner air and other environmental benefits by cutting carbon emissions. These projects also create family sustaining jobs and offer new learning opportunities for students. It’s a winning proposition all around. Now that the program is open and accepting applications, I strongly urge our school districts to apply.” Read more

 

‘Not just an urban issue:’ Lawmakers hear from experts, advocates on child homelessness in Pa.

(Nov 14, 2024) Pennsylvania Capital-Star

Pointing to a lack of data, resources and support services and the effect of stigmatization, advocates at Wednesday’s press conference urged lawmakers to take up bills that they say will help address youth homelessness and set students up on a path to success, such as HB 127, HB 729, HB 730, HB 1175. Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Nov 14, 2024) Central PA Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Aging: Senior Community Center Grant Program Who May Apply: Senior community centers with an existing, contractual relationship with an Area Agency on Aging. Use: Funding opportunities are intended for enhancements to increase participation and programming, attract a new generation of older adults, and enable Senior Community Centers to provide a safe and healthy environment for their participants. Funds: $2 million in competitive grant funding is available. Application Deadline: December 13, 2024 More information: PA Grants website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program Who May Apply: County governments and non-profit agencies. Use: To support communities in their efforts to develop and strengthen effective responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence through multidisciplinary collaboration. Funds: A total of $870,000 over the three-year project period in federal STOP Formula Grant funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund two grants with budgets not to exceed $145,000 per 12-month project period. Application Deadline: December 2, 2024 More information: PCCD Website Military and Veterans Affairs: Veterans’ Trust Fund Who May Apply: Non-profits serving veterans, veterans’ service organizations, Read more

 

Conklin: Centre County tourism bureau awarded more than $93,000

(Nov 13, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 13 – State Rep. Scott Conklin today announced a grant of more than $93,000 to the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau to support the bureau’s investment in the 2024 Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Series. Conklin said the grant, secured through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Sports Marketing and Tourism Program, would help ensure Center County’s tourism bureau has the resources to continue its successful promotional efforts. “Sports tourism provides tremendous benefits for our region by attracting visitors to patronize our local shops, restaurants and hotels,” Conklin said. “The 2024 Ironman Triathlon this summer was no exception, drawing more than 1,500 athletes alone and injecting an estimated $4.7 million into the economy. The new funding will help ensure that our tourism bureau has the resources needed to continue successfully promoting these events into the years ahead.” The funding is part of a package of grants awarded for 11 major sporting events statewide. More about the Sports Marketing and Tourism Program is available here: https://dced.pa.gov/programs/sports-marketing-and-tourism-program-smat/ . Read more

 

Conklin: $224,300 secured for District 77 park and environmental projects

(Nov 13, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 13 – Two grants totaling $224,300 from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will fund playground improvements for Ferguson Township and the installation of riparian buffers along part of the Susquehanna River Watershed in Centre County, Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin, D-Centre, said the funding includes $124,600 to Ferguson Township for improvements to Autumnwood Park. “The new funding will allow the township to rehab the playground by adding new play equipment, safety surfacing, ADA accessibility and related improvements,” Conklin said. “It’s a great enhancement for a well-loved community gathering place.” Conklin said a second grant of $99,700 to ClearWater Conservancy of Central PA would fund installation of riparian forest buffers. “Riparian buffers planted along our waterways help protect water quality by filtering out pesticides and sediment from runoff,” Conklin said. “They also help prevent erosion and benefit wildlife and delicate ecosystems. Thanks to the new funding, ClearWater Conservancy will be able to install six acres of riparian forest buffers to help protect and preserve our precious Susquehanna River Watershed.” The funding comes from the DCNR Community Conservation Partnerships Program, which supports projects to develop new parks, rehabilitate existing spaces and protect vital natural habitats. Read more

 

Central Pennsylvania House Delegation announces new leadership team

(Nov 13, 2024) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov.13 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr., chair of the Central Pennsylvania House Democratic Delegation, has been reelected to continue in his role for the 2025-26 legislative session. The delegation also elected Rep. David Madsen as vice-chair and Rep.-elect Nikki Rivera as secretary. Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz was appointed to serve a second term as treasurer of the group. Guzman said he is eagerly looking forward to the new legislative session and anticipates the development of an impactful work agenda for the benefit of all residents of the region. “I am grateful for the opportunity to chair the Central PA Delegation and most of all proud to work along an incredible group of legislators,” Guzman said. The Central PA Delegation has welcomed three new members to the group, Reps.-elect Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster; Jacklyn Rusnock, D-Berks; and Nate Davidson, D-Cumberland/Dauphin. “I am confident that this new leadership team and members will help us bolster our shared goal of improving the quality of life in this part of the state and foster equitable and inclusive policies” Guzman added. “The Central PA Delegation is strategically gearing up for a challenging 2025-26 legislative session and certainly aiming to secure major victories for our region,” he said. Read more

 

Conklin: $3.5 million secured for Central Intermediate Unit 10 administrative offices project

(Nov 02, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 1 – New grant funding of $3.5 million from the Redevelopment Capitol Assistance Program will support work on new administrative offices for Central Intermediate Unit 10, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grant would fund major renovation work at the 1.8-acre site of the former Philipsburg-Osceola Junior High School. “We were glad to see CIU 10 secure the Sixth Street site, which provides a perfect, centralized location for administrative offices that will serve the unit’s three-county region,” Conklin said. “The former school’s gymnasium remains on the property, and work will focus on razing or renovating the building to create new administrative offices and training space. “Thanks to the new funding, that work – and related installation of new sidewalks, curbing and green space – will move forward. It’s going to be exciting seeing the project take shape.” The RACP funds design, acquisition, and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects that have a regional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. Read more

 

Fleming secures $3.5 million in capital investments for the 105th district

(Nov 01, 2024) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 - State Rep. Justin Fleming, D-Dauphin, today announced that he secured $3,500,000 in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants for projects in the 105th Legislative District he serves. “I’m proud to have secured $3.5 million in RACP grants that will enhance community life in our district. Funds will be used to build out a central green in Susquehanna Township and to construct a community room accessible to various group and also used for public health education,” Fleming said. “These state grants will help improve connections in our community, offering opportunities for education and recreation for all.” The projects funded in the district are: $3,000,000 to Capital Blue Cross for renovations to the facility on Elmerton Avenue, including the construction of a multi-purpose community meeting room that would be used for public health activities and would be accessible for community groups, and the renovated cafeteria area. $500,000 to Hawthorne SPE LLC for the build-out of the central green at Susquehanna Union Green including site development, landscaping and construction of a 2,850 square foot pavilion and a utility/storage kiosk. Funds would also be used to purchase materials and equipment for an outdoor ice rink. The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a Pennsylvania grant program for the design, acquisition, and construction of regional economic, cultural, Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El announces over $1.5 million in state grants for capital improvements

(Nov 01, 2024) Central PA Delegation

LANCASTER, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, today announced that $1,567,000 in state investments that his office helped to secure would be coming to Lancaster City through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. “For many people in Lancaster County, they don’t have a healthcare system that works,” Smith-Wade-El said. “This $1.5 million in state grants will help provide lifesaving medical services to those in need. My office staff and I are thrilled by this investment in critical health infrastructure in Lancaster County and we are proud to have played a part in securing it.” Union Community Care Community Health Center Union Community Care $500,000 In this project, Union Community Carewill will complete phase one of the renovation for the planned community health center build-out at its recently purchased property. Specifically, interior demolition and fit out to include finishes (framing and installation of medical grade casework, drywall, flooring and painting); interior excavation and demolition; plumbing upgrades; electrical upgrades; and sprinkler system retrofit, along with replacement of the existing rubber roof; full HVAC system replacement; and the demolition of an existing parking deck. Lancaster EMS Fairview Avenue Lancaster Emergency Medical Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District

(Oct 29, 2024) Central PA Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Community and Economic Development: Mixed-Use Housing Development Pilot Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Economic Development Organizations, Redevelopment Authorities, Municipal Authorities, Industrial Development Authorities, For-Profit organizations. Use: Mixed-use site development, conversion projects, rehabilitation projects, a combination of the three afore-mentioned projects. Funds: $10 million in PA Sites funding has been allocated for this program. There is no limit on the amount of grant funding that may be awarded to an applicant. Application Deadline: December 6, 2024 More information: DCED Website Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Recovery Support Services (RSS) Who May Apply: Applicant must have at least two years of experience as of July 1, 2024, providing RSS and demonstrate the capacity to provide RSS to individuals in recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) and other concurrent substance use disorder (SUD). Use: Expand or enhance RSS to individuals in recover from OUD and other concurrent SUD. Funds: Approximately six grants totaling $1,500,000 each will be awarded. Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 More information: DDAP Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $900,000 secured to boost Centre County resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth
Dec 18, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 17, 2024

Hill-Evans announces funding for local Chesapeake Bay cleanup efforts; reappointment to Chesapeake Bay Commission
Dec 17, 2024

Smith-Wade-El lauds grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Dec 11, 2024

Conklin: Advanced Powder Products secures nearly $3 million to rebuild Rush Township facility damaged in fire
Dec 05, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 04, 2024

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security
Dec 03, 2024

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security
Dec 03, 2024

Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair
Nov 18, 2024

Conklin: State College Borough secures $250k for transit station study
Nov 18, 2024

Conklin urges area schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant
Nov 15, 2024

‘Not just an urban issue:’ Lawmakers hear from experts, advocates on child homelessness in Pa.
Nov 14, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Nov 14, 2024

Conklin: Centre County tourism bureau awarded more than $93,000
Nov 13, 2024

Conklin: $224,300 secured for District 77 park and environmental projects
Nov 13, 2024

Central Pennsylvania House Delegation announces new leadership team
Nov 13, 2024

Conklin: $3.5 million secured for Central Intermediate Unit 10 administrative offices project
Nov 02, 2024

Fleming secures $3.5 million in capital investments for the 105th district
Nov 01, 2024

Smith-Wade-El announces over $1.5 million in state grants for capital improvements
Nov 01, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District
Oct 29, 2024