Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair

(Nov 18, 2024)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

 

Takac announces appointment to commission aimed at revitalizing PA’s rural population

(Oct 29, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Oct. 29 – Underscoring his commitment to advancing the interests of rural communities across Pennsylvania, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, today announced his recent appointment by Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton to serve as the House Democratic caucus representative on the Center for Rural Pennsylvania’s newly created Rural Population Revitalization Commission. Takac's appointment comes at a critical juncture. Counties in rural Pennsylvania face many serious challenges, including a projected 5.8% population decline by 2050. The commission's mandate is to identify innovative strategies that will help drive development and revitalization efforts to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of these vital regions. "This appointment provides me a unique opportunity to focus on, identify, and help tackle the real challenges facing our rural communities across Pennsylvania,” Takac said. “One of my top priorities is working to find solutions that will ensure a vibrant future for every resident of our commonwealth. Since taking office, I have been laser focused on delivering for rural Pennsylvania, and my legislative record embodies that philosophy. “From helping deliver a first-of-its-kind $10 million Agricultural Innovation fund to championing the reauthorization of the $50 million Rural Jobs Investment Tax Credit program -- and from helping secure over $5.5 million in Read more

 

Central PA Delegation condemns racist diatribe against minorities at Madison Square Garden rally

(Oct 28, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Oct. 28 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr., chair of the Central Pennsylvania House Democratic Delegation, today condemned hateful remarks made at a rally hosted by former President Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden, New York, on Sunday. The group released the following statement: “What we heard Sunday evening during Trump’s rally was a brutal diatribe against Puerto Rico, Latinos, Black and Jewish voters. We cannot summarize these derogatory comments against minorities and label it as ‘just a bad comedy set;’ the remarks are part of an ongoing strategy that is clearly in alignment with Trump’s harmful and characteristic rhetoric hate. “In the same rally, Stephen Miller, Trump’s senior aide stated that ‘America is for Americans and Americans only.’ We are appalled by the expression. The statement calls for division and refers to our nation as a private club reserved for chosen ones. “Let’s keep in mind that America is defined by diversity. Our delegation condemns the slew of offensive remarks at the unfortunate rally and remains committed to stand up against discrimination and extremism of any kind.” Read more

 

Fleming bill for diabetes awareness headed to governor’s desk

(Oct 25, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Oct. 25 – A bill sponsored by state Rep. Justin Fleming directing Pennsylvania schools to send home information about type 1 diabetes and its warning signs passed the state House and Senate and is now headed to the governor’s desk. “The warning signs of type 1 diabetes can often go unnoticed, so knowing what to look for is literally lifesaving,” Fleming, D-Dauphin, said. “This legislation will help empower individuals with diabetes education so they can act when warning signs appear. This bill is also very personal as my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in June 2020.” Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas shuts down, failing to provide insulin that the body needs to regulate blood glucose. Those who have type 1 diabetes are dependent on pharmaceutically manufactured insulin for life. For many, the signs of type 1 diabetes can go unnoticed for longer periods of time resulting in a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, leading to serious health complications that may even be fatal. Recognizing the signs of diabetes early, along with targeted screening and monitoring, have been shown to reduce the incidence of DKA, reduce rates of hospitalization and, most importantly, save lives, Fleming said. "The most common age range for a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is between 6-16. This legislation will make sure that parents and guardians are equipped Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $500,000 secured for high school roof replacement

(Oct 23, 2024)

STATE COLLEGE, Oct. 23 – New grant funding of $490,692 will support a project to replace deteriorated roof sections at Philipsburg-Osceola Senior High School, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grant – secured through the Commonwealth Financing Authority – will help fund work to replace multiple aging roof sections that are failing and allowing moisture to intrude. “The new funds will help the school district move forward with much-needed work to the high school’s roof, sections of which are more than 30 years old and well past their serviceable life,” Conklin said. “Components are failing and allowing moisture in, and the school needs to move forward with replacement and restoration work to prevent building damage and slipping hazards. I’m glad the new funding will help make that happen.” Conklin said the funding was awarded through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program. Administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development under the direction of the Commonwealth Financing Authority, the program provides funding to public school districts and career and technical schools for eligible facility improvement projects. Grants are available for eligible improvement projects with a total project cost of $500,000 or more and may not exceed $5 million for any project. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements

(Oct 23, 2024)

LANCASTER, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced that he helped to secure $4,145,502 in state grants for the 49th District to build affordable housing and renovate a school into a community center for children, families and seniors. “Our area’s families need and deserve housing in which to raise their families,” Smith-Wade-El said. “Not only does having a roof over one’s head provide a sense of security, but a home makes a family healthier, makes a student perform better in school, helps a worker keep a job. Every family deserves a chance to get ahead, not just get by, and that starts with a home. My team is proud to work to bring home millions to secure homes, fight homelessness, provide our kids with places to play and our neighbors with places to thrive.” $500,000 Franklin Street Project Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is partnering with South Ann Concerned Neighbors Inc. for the purpose of constructing affordable housing. The funds will go towards constructing a mixed-use facility that will house two three-bedroom loft-style affordable apartments on the second floor for low-income families. In addition, a pizza shop and a fresh food market, selling healthy essentials such as fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, milk and bread, will be constructed on the first floor. $500,000 Breaking Barriers of Poverty to Build Better Futures Installation of a new HVAC system, bathrooms, a Read more

 

Ciresi announces $855k in grants for emergency response, school improvements, and downtown revitalization

(Oct 23, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today announced that he secured $855,333 in state government grants for projects in the 146 th legislative district. “These grants will help meet the important needs of our first responders, invest in our local school facilities, and help beautify downtown Pottstown, contributing to its ongoing revitalization,” Ciresi said. “This is a prime example of taxpayer money being brought back home to improve the quality of life here in a variety of different ways.” The following grants are from Statewide Local Share Account funding. It comes from the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, which provides for the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects in the public interest in Pennsylvania: $150,270 Lower Pottsgrove Township Municipal Radio System The funds will be used to purchase a radio system for the municipality, which will include the purchase of 45 mobile radios, the purchase and installation of a VHF repeater and professional services costs. $90,000 Pottstown Downtown Streetscape Plan The funds will be used to help develop a comprehensive plan to improve Pottstown’s streetscape, including strategies to beautify vacant storefronts, design outdoor areas for recreation and social gatherings, and give the walking corridor a safe and welcoming atmosphere. The project will Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements

(Oct 23, 2024)

LANCASTER, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced that he helped to secure $4,145,502 in state grants for the 49 th District to build affordable housing and renovate a school into a community center for children, families and seniors. “Our area’s families need and deserve housing in which to raise their families,” Smith-Wade-El said. “Not only does having a roof over one’s head provide a sense of security, but a home makes a family healthier, makes a student perform better in school, helps a worker keep a job. Every family deserves a chance to get ahead, not just get by, and that starts with a home. My team is proud to work to bring home millions to secure homes, fight homelessness, provide our kids with places to play and our neighbors with places to thrive.” $500,000 Franklin Street Project Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is partnering with South Ann Concerned Neighbors Inc. for the purpose of constructing affordable housing. The funds will go towards constructing a mixed-use facility that will house two three-bedroom loft-style affordable apartments on the second floor for low-income families. In addition, a pizza shop and a fresh food market, selling healthy essentials such as fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, milk and bread, will be constructed on the first floor. $500,000 Breaking Barriers of Poverty to Build Better Futures Installation of a new Read more

 

Guzman secures more than $2 million in LSA grants for five local projects

(Oct 22, 2024)

READING, Oct. 22 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today announced that five local projects will benefit from more than $2 million statewide Local Share Account grants. The funds are aimed at creating a senior housing project in Reading and replacing a sanitary sewer main along Brobst Street in Shillington Borough, Berks County. The grants were awarded to: Reading Development Authority. - $1,000,000. To demolish structures and complete environmental remediation for the eventual construction of an affordable housing community for seniors in Reading, Berks County. The housing units will be restricted based on the median income in the area for people aged 62 or older. The property will feature a community room with a kitchen, offices for staff and healthcare providers. Shillington Borough - $250,000. For the replacement of sanitary sewer main along Brobst Street. Shillington Borough - $56,390 -- to purchase a valve-turning trailer. The Reading Public Museum - $636,022 -- to replace two air handling units and controllers needed to maintain and preserve the museum’s permanent collection. Reading Area Water Authority - $191,647 -- to purchase a fully equipped dump truck. “I am thrilled to welcome these grants to my district. Guzman said. “Combating housing insecurity and supporting our seniors are top Read more

 

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

Takac announces appointment to commission aimed at revitalizing PA’s rural population
Oct 29, 2024

Central PA Delegation condemns racist diatribe against minorities at Madison Square Garden rally
Oct 28, 2024

Fleming bill for diabetes awareness headed to governor’s desk
Oct 25, 2024

Conklin: Nearly $500,000 secured for high school roof replacement
Oct 23, 2024

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements
Oct 23, 2024

Ciresi announces $855k in grants for emergency response, school improvements, and downtown revitalization
Oct 23, 2024

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements
Oct 23, 2024

Guzman secures more than $2 million in LSA grants for five local projects
Oct 22, 2024