Businesses in Chester and Montgomery counties are making a meaningful impact in their communities through Pennsylvania’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). Nearly $650,000 in funding will be distributed to eight organizations in these counties as part of a statewide initiative to revitalize local neighborhoods and support vulnerable populations.

What Is the Neighborhood Assistance Program?

The Neighborhood Assistance Program incentivizes businesses to contribute to nonprofit organizations by offering tax credits in return. The program’s 2024-2025 funding has significantly increased, doubling from $36 million to $72 million thanks to the state’s latest budget. This boost allows for two rounds of funding awards, benefitting 218 projects across Pennsylvania. Among these, the Charitable Food Program and Special Priorities Program are key components addressing urgent community needs.

How This Funding Will Be Used

The allocated funding will support a wide range of initiatives, including:

• Assistance for Vulnerable Individuals: Financially distressed individuals will receive critical support to meet basic needs.

• Housing Rehabilitation Grants: Low-income families will benefit from grants to maintain and rehabilitate their homes, ensuring safe and stable living conditions.

• Education Support for At-Risk Students: Funding will also provide math and reading support for students at risk of falling behind in school.

“This state funding will provide critical support to some of our communities’ most vulnerable, from financially distressed individuals struggling to meet basic needs to low-income families requiring rehab grants to stay in their homes, to at-risk students needing math and reading support so they can do well in school,” said state Rep. Joe Ciresi (D-146).

The Local Impact in Chester and Montgomery Counties

Eight nonprofit organizations in Chester and Montgomery counties will benefit from nearly $650,000 in funding. These groups will use the financial resources to enhance their efforts in community revitalization, food security, housing stability, and education.

The increased funding for NAP underlines the state’s commitment to addressing pressing social challenges and fostering stronger, more resilient communities. The ripple effects of these investments will undoubtedly improve the quality of life for countless individuals and families in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Explore the Full List of Beneficiaries

For a comprehensive list of organizations in Southeastern Pennsylvania receiving funding through the Neighborhood Assistance Program, visit the state website here.

Conclusion

This expanded funding under Pennsylvania’s Neighborhood Assistance Program exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships in creating lasting change. By supporting nonprofits through tax credit incentives, businesses are playing a vital role in improving housing, education, and basic services for underserved communities in Chester and Montgomery counties.

Stay tuned for updates on these impactful projects and explore how similar initiatives can support your community.

Source: Daily Local, January 14, 2025