Neighborhood Assistance Program grants are awarded

The money will help fund numerous projects throughout the Mon Valley.

Last week, some Mon Valley organizations learned that they will be receiving funds from the Neighborhood Assistance Program.

NAP is a statewide tax credit initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to encourage private investment in community- focused nonprofit projects. Sen. Nick Pisciottano, D-West Mifflin, announced $11.5 million in NAP awards in his district alone.

“This year’s NAP awards will make a difference in neighborhoods across Allegheny County,” Pisciottano said. “These projects represent solutions to long-standing challenges, from food security to job training and community development. I’m happy to see state resources supporting grassroots efforts to improve quality of life for our residents.”

Mon Valley organizations outside the borders of Allegheny County also received funds from the program.

The following Mon Valley organizations were selected for awards:

• $48,750 for Tube City Renaissance for work in McKeesport.

• $237,500 for the Mon Valley Alliance Foundation in Charleroi.

• $190,000 for the Mon Valley Initiative for work in Clairton.

• $135,000 for the Literacy Council of Southwestern PA for work in Charleroi.

• $121,500 for Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh for work in Clairton.

• $1,254,490 for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

According to the DCED, Tube City Renaissance will be using its funds for renovations on two properties and to help Renzie Park become an arboretum with community involvement.

Tube City Renaissance, a McKeesport nonprofit, is working on community revitalization through environmental education, affordable housing and urban greening in the city.

Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh will be using its funds to partner with the City of Clairton to provide home repairs for 10-12 low-income homeowners.

Pisciottano encouraged organizations to look into NAP to receive funds for major projects. More information about NAP can be found at dced.pa.gov/programs/ neighborhood-assistance-program- nap/.

“Nonprofit organizations, working in partnership with private businesses, will use these NAP awards to finance projects that deliver services to residents, stabilize neighborhoods, and strengthen community infrastructure,” Pisciottano said. “By pairing private investment with state tax credits, these programs can reach more people and deliver measurable benefits at the local level.”