HARRISBURG – State Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) today applauded the approval of $3.5 million in funding through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) to support three regional initiatives across the 23rd Senatorial District. NAP provides tax credits to businesses that donate capital, which support projects addressing neighborhood and community problems.
The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, which serves Bradford and Lycoming counties, has received $3,070,306 in tax credits to continue serving the needs of individuals living at or below 150% of the poverty level. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Food Bank will focus on scaling up, prioritizing safety, and convening and building partnerships, all with the goal of better serving their clients across an 18-county region.
The Fairlawn Community Church, Lycoming Township, Lycoming County, also will receive $164,625 in tax credits to support the completion of a commercial grade kitchen, dining area, and pantry to serve food to over 300 people per week, increasing from their current 150. They will also work with the area school district on an after-school program and any meal needs. They plan to complete some site work this fall and then construct the shell of the building in the spring of 2021.
Additionally, the Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO), a community action agency incorporated in 1966 to alleviate poverty across Northeastern Pennsylvania, will receive $275,000 in tax credits to provide an increased amount of fresh nutritious food to local communities. While CEO does currently partner with lower growers throughout local communities, tax credits under the Charitable Food program provide an increased incentive that will enable them to expand the number of vendors they partner with and leverage additional resources for the food bank.
“These organizations provide food and other nutrition-related supplies to many people living in my district who are facing financial hardship,” Sen. Yaw said. “I’m pleased they will be able to continue that important mission and reach even more people in need, improving the quality of life for many in the region.”
NAP can be used for projects in categories including affordable housing, community services, crime prevention, education, job training, charitable food, blight, special population issues, veteran’s initiatives, and long-term community revitalization.
For more state-related news and information, visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT: Rita Zielonis, Chief of Staff (717) 787-3280