February 14, 2023
West Chester, Pa (February 14, 2023 – The Coatesville Area School District and the Delaware Valley Friends School in Paoli will receive nearly $60,000 in total state funding for school safety upgrades, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
The funding, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) Safe Schools Targeted Grants Program, can be used to create safer school communities by purchasing safety equipment and implementing new programs.
The grants are as follows:
- $49,999 for the Coatesville Area School District.
- $9,557 for the Delaware Valley Friends School.
“These funds aim to help ensure that our schools and school communities are healthy, positive, and productive environments for learning and growth,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “It’s vital that students, teachers, and schools have access to resources, programs, and improvements that enhance safety and educational opportunity.”
The funding comes as part of more than $8 million in competitive Safe Schools Targeted grants awarded to 166 schools across the Commonwealth. Of that, forty-three local education agencies received equipment or program grants totaling $1.94 million. And approximately $3.4 million was awarded to 83 nonpublic schools for equipment and programming.
“Every student in Pennsylvania deserves a safe learning environment, and these Safe Schools Targeted Grants will help schools all across the Commonwealth invest in the resources and staff they need to keep students, teachers, and staff safe,” said Gov. Shapiro. “Students should be able to focus on learning and growing in the classroom, and my Administration will continue to work with our schools and local communities to ensure they have the support they deserve.”
“Our educators and school administrators work tirelessly each day to ensure that students’ social, emotional, and wellness needs are met, and this funding will further support the resources that schools have at their disposal,” said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “Providing comfortable learning environments that empower learners to achieve will ultimately lead them to infinite possibilities of success.”
Safe School grants assist schools in reducing unnecessary student disciplinary actions and promoting an environment of greater productivity, safety, and learning; and enhancing anti-violence efforts between schools and parents, local governments, law enforcement, and community organizations.
Grants of up to $50,000 are available to public and nonpublic schools to purchase equipment and programming through the Safe Schools Targeted Grants program.
For more information on PDE’s Office for Safe Schools, visit www.education.pa.gov/Schools/safeschools
February 7, 2023
West Chester, Pa (February 7, 2023) – Eight ambulance and emergency services providers impacted by the closure of Tower Direct (Medic 93) and Brandywine Hospital will receive $400,000 in total state funding thanks to the work of state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
“Our emergency first responders and response organizations continue to strive to meet the growing demands and increased challenges that come with serving more people and more communities in a larger area,” Comitta said. “These investments represent a small but important step in supporting their life-saving work with new tools and technology while we continue to work toward a more permanent and sustainable solution.”
The companies, which each received $50,000 in grant funding secured by Comitta, are utilizing the resources to upgrade equipment and vehicles so they can better the needs of the communities they serve.
They are as follows:
- Minquas Fire Co.
- Modena Fire Co.
- Westwood Fire Co.
- Keystone Valley Fire Co.
- Good Fellowship Ambulance
- Uwchlan Ambulance
- Washington Hose Co.
- Southern Chester County EMS
“For the past few years, EMS organizations across Chester County have faced the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital closures and a reduction in paramedic services, all coupled with numerous challenges around insurance reimbursements,” said Charles Brogan, President of the Chester County EMS Council and Interim Executive Director of Good Fellowship Ambulance and EMS Training Institute. “This grant funding comes at a time when these already financially strapped organizations have taken on more emergency calls following the realignment and reduction of paramedic services in Chester County by Tower Health. The Chester County EMS Council thanks Senator Comitta for her recognition of the challenges and her continued support for Chester County’s first responders.”
Tower Health abruptly closed Brandywine Hospital and Jennersville Hospital in early 2022 and its Advanced Life Support ambulances, known as Tower Direct’s Medic 93, stopped operating in the area served by the hospitals in September.
Since then:
- Stakeholders and community partners continue to work to facilitate discussions in finding a new owner/operator for Brandywine Hospital.
February 6, 2023
West Chester, Pa (February 6, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta, minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, today issued the following statement regarding the derailment of a train carrying hazardous materials near the Pennsylvania/Ohio border.
“In light of this terrible accident, my heart goes out to our emergency first responders and everyone impacted by the train derailment, explosion, fire, and evacuation order near the Pennsylvania-Ohio border. Because of this very dangerous situation, urgent legislative or regulatory action is needed to help prevent future disasters.
About 3.9 million Pennsylvanians live in a possible evacuation zone for such an accident. And as we are seeing in the aftermath of this accident, smoke, fire, and the release of hazardous chemicals pose significant potential risks to public health and safety, as well as environmental health.
I plan to work with environmental, public safety, and transportation organizations to enact changes that better protect communities and families, including:
- Ensuring information about these trains and their contents is readily accessible to the public, local officials, and emergency first responders and coordinators who can develop sufficient emergency response plans and procedures.
- Updating our infrastructure with an emphasis on public safety, including operational safety and oversight improvements, both on the railways and the trains themselves.
- Striving to route trains carrying hazardous products through less populated areas.
- Moving toward a cleaner, safer way of life, as many of these trains carry hazardous materials, fossil fuels, and associated products.”
###
January 31, 2023
West Chester, Pa (February 1, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta recently presented Oxford Borough officials with the Community Pride Award from Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.
Comitta nominated the borough for the honor for its overall community beautification and greening efforts.
“As a former mayor, I know just how important downtown beautification can be in supporting revitalization,” Comitta said. “It drives business and sales, encourages tourism, enhances community engagement, promotes private investment, benefits the environment, and adds personality, highlighting the character of your community. I want to thank all of the staff and volunteers who take pride in their hometowns and are working to keep Oxford and Pennsylvania beautiful.”
The Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award recognizes outstanding environmental stewardship by an individual, school, community organization, or civic group that makes a commitment to litter control, recycling, or general beautification.
“I am so grateful to Senator Comitta for nominating us and for the work of the Oxford Regional Area Environmental Advisory Council (EAC),” said Oxford Borough Council President Kathryn Cloyd. “We were thrilled to have our work, which is a labor of love, recognized by the bestowal of this award. And none of this would have been possible without our public works staff and the many volunteers who came out to support and work on our gardens even in inclement weather.”
Cloyd also thanked the Penn State Master Watershed Stewards and Master Gardeners, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and the Chesapeake Bay Trust for their support of Oxford’s greening and environmental efforts.
Oxford Mainstreet Inc. (OMI) Executive Director Brian Dix said the organization’s annual downtown beautification efforts begin each March with spring plantings of seasonal flowers in 16 large pots and about 20 hanging baskets throughout the downtown. He said efforts to maintain the plantings and beautify the downtown are supported throughout the year by local business owners, volunteer organizations, and student groups from Oxford Area High School.
“OMI is honored to be a small piece of the puzzle that makes Oxford the special place it is. Seeing the Borough receive this prestigious award is a testament to the fruitful partnerships our community continues to forge and enjoy,” Dix said.
Mike Means, a social studies teacher and Head Football Coach at Oxford Area High School, said the team implemented a downtown community cleanup day during its pre-season workout schedule each summer.
“It’s part of bridging the gap between the athletics program and the community by getting our kids involved in as much as we can in Oxford. It’s something that the team likes to do and we enjoy being able to do it for the community,” he said.
In addition to its overall beautification efforts, Oxford replaced several trees, planted riparian buffers, and created a native plant garden adjacent to its new parking garage to help manage runoff and provide a habitat for pollinators.
According to Carrie Conwell, Keep Chester County Beautiful Coordinator and Senior Environmental Planner with the Chester County Planning Commission, Chester County is the statewide organization’s 28th affiliate.
Since 1990, thousands of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful volunteers have collected more than 152 million pounds of trash from roadways, waterways, greenways, and forests.
“Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful congratulates and commends Oxford Borough for its community improvement initiatives. Clean and beautiful communities are the foundation for community and economic development and we are grateful for the many volunteers who give freely of their time to steward their communities. We encourage all public officials to recognize the noble and necessary work and the special people who coordinate local programs to keep our communities clean and beautiful,” said Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.
January 30, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 30, 2023) – The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) will receive $50,000 in state funding to improve their West Chester shelter and expand their animal veterinary services thanks to State Senator Carolyn Comitta.
“The Brandywine Valley SPCA is a leader in caring for and protecting some of our community’s most vulnerable animals and helping them find loving places to call home,” Comitta said. “With this investment, BVSPCA will be able to reduce costs by offering more on-site services while creating more opportunities for animals to enjoy the outdoors.”
The funding will be used to add an in-house surgery suite, which will allow the shelter to offer onsite spay and neutering, replacing the need to transport animals to the off-site Animal Health Center and expediting recovery time.
Senator Comitta meets two puppies, Mitton and Magnolia, during a recent visit to the Brandywine Valley SPCA. To learn about pets available for adoption through the Brandywine Valley SPCA, bvspca.org.
The project also calls for building a paved walking path for volunteers and staff to safely walk dogs around the property during any type of weather and increase the opportunities for outdoor play, socialization, and exercise in secure enrichment yards.
“We’re grateful for the Senator’s advocacy for homeless pets and her leadership to secure support for these critical projects,” said Adam Lamb, Brandywine Valley SPCA Chief Executive Officer. “The play yard and walking path enhancements make a huge difference in the quality of life for our shelter dogs, and the surgery suite expands our ability to spay/neuter and address the medical needs of the thousands of animals that depend on us each year.”
Previously known as the Chester County SPCA, BVSPCA has been advocating for the humane treatment of our community’s animals since 1929. BVSPCA has since expanded to operating four shelters and Animal Health Centers in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Each year, BVSPCA cares for nearly 19,000 animals, finding permanent homes and other housing for at least 95 percent of the animals that come through the shelter.
For more information on the Brandywine Valley SPCA and the pets available for adoption at their shelters, visit their website bvspca.org
###
January 26, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 26, 2023) – Eligible senior citizens and Pennsylvanians with disabilities can begin applying for this year’s Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
The rebate program, for property taxes or rent paid in 2022, benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
“Each year, thousands of Chester County residents get more money put back into their pockets thanks to the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program,” Comitta said. “I encourage all eligible individuals to fill out the free application and know that my constituent services team is available to assist with the application or answer any questions you may have.”
The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, with half of Social Security income excluded. The maximum standard rebate is $650.
To apply, residents must provide proof of income (W2, 1099 form, Social Security Statements), age, disability (if applicable), and the receipt for taxes paid taxes paid (for homeowners) or rent paid (for renters).
The application is free, and residents can apply online through mypath.pa.gov or by completing the PA-1000 paper application form. The deadline to apply is June 30, 2023.
For more information on the program visit the Department of Revenue’s website at www.revenue.pa.gov or contact Senator Comitta’s district office at 610-692-2112 for assistance.
###
January 25, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 25, 2023) – The West Chester Food Cupboard is expanding its efforts to meet the needs of more individuals and families thanks, in part, to $50,000 in state funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The Food Cupboard, one of the largest hunger relief agencies in Chester County, is planning to expand its services so its volunteers can continue to meet the needs of the local community. The funds, secured by Comitta, will help cover the expansion costs, including new refrigeration and freezers, flooring, shelving, HVAC and electric work, and other equipment and upgrades.
“The West Chester Food Cupboard continues to grow and expand to meet the needs of all people in our community. Hunger is a solvable problem and we can solve it through volunteerism, generosity, and working together,” Comitta said. “I am happy to support the expansion of the West Chester Food Cupboard and thank all of the volunteers and donors who keep it and our entire network of food banks and agencies running.”
“We are immensely grateful for Senator Comitta’s support of the West Chester Food Cupboard and her assistance in securing this grant. This and the many other initiatives she has driven and supported demonstrate her commitment to reducing food insecurity in our community,” said Rob Necarsulmer, Board President of the West Chester Food Cupboard
Founded in 2009, the West Chester Food Cupboard is a 100 percent volunteer-run non-profit organization. It has expanded from providing food to about 340 households a month at its inception to more than three times that many today. Recently, its needs have grown significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to rise as a result of higher consumer costs.
The West Chester Food Cupboard expects to distribute more than 1.6 million pounds of food to more than 1,100 households a month from July 2022 to June of this year.
Clients receive a variety of dairy, meats, fresh produce, nonperishables, and basic personal care items. Half of the items provided are purchased with cash donations and the remaining are provided with food donations. Clients include single-parent families, people with disabilities, veterans, the elderly, and workers holding down full-time, low-income jobs. All are at or below the 185% poverty level and come from a wide variety of circumstances.
In addition, the food cupboard has launched a number of initiatives to meet the needs of more residents and families by working with local organizations and institutions like the Salvation Army, the Melton Center, ACT in Faith, Cheyney University, West Chester University, and Lincoln University.
Most recently, the West Chester Food Cupboard launched the Food Cupboard Express, which offers free basic food items and extras to anyone who needs additional food with no eligibility requirements. Clients may come as often as they need to obtain items in an easy, store-like experience. The Food Cupboard Express is open on Mondays and Fridays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
For more info on the West Chester Food Cupboard, visit www.westchesterfoodcupboard.org
January 24, 2023
January 18, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 18, 2023) – The Willistown Conservation Trust will receive $127,000 in funding to improve local watersheds, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Melissa Shusterman recently announced.
The organization will use the funding for the Rushton Woods Preserve Okehocking Run Watershed Enhancement project to construct a bioretention basin and vegetated swale.
“The Willistown Conservation Trust is a local leader in sustainability, conservation, and watershed protection,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “I’m happy to announce this new funding so the organization can continue its great service to the public by ensuring the long-term health of our local streams and waterways.”
The funding was awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Growing Greener Grant Program. The program’s mission is to restore Pennsylvania’s impaired waters and protect water ways from nonpoint source pollution.
“The Okehocking Run watershed is vital to our native wildlife and also provides significant research and recreation opportunities,” said Shusterman. “This grant will allow Willistown to continue its efforts to preserve this unique ecosystem, enriching the lives of Pennsylvanians for generations to come.”
Rushton Woods Preserve is one of three preserves owned and managed by the Willistown Conservation Trust. The 86-acre property includes a woodland, open meadows, a creek, and a farm. The preserve also hosts two miles of walking and riding trails leading to a broader network of local trails.
For more information on Rushton Woods Preserve and the Willistown Conservation Trust visit wctrust.org
January 17, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 17, 2023) – West Chester University will receive $96,000 in state grant funding to support new teacher preparation programs, State Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
The funding is awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Innovative Teacher Prep2Practice Grant Program.
“As a former educator, I have seen the importance of having quality preparation programs that set our teachers up for success in the classroom as they provide our children with a fulfilling educational experience,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “With this new funding, we are supporting individuals who wish to enter this rewarding career path while solidifying West Chester University’s place as a leading institution for new educators.”
The new grant program is designed to stimulate the creation of highly cohesive and innovative clinical experiences for teachers that make explicit connections across the three stages of clinical experience: early clinical experiences starting in the first year of a preparation program, a capstone student teaching experience, and a post-graduate clinical experience.
Teacher Prep2Practice is one of three initiatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Education that recently awarded $5 million in total funding to strengthen Pennsylvania’s educator workforce.
For more information on this and other programs offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education visit www.education.pa.gov.
###
January 13, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 13, 2023) – Water infrastructure in the West Chester area will be improved thanks to a $6 million loan from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PennVEST), state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Chris Pielli announced today.
The loan to Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc. will help replace 450 lead and galvanized lines in the utility’s West Chester service with 18,000 feet of new line made of safer, modern materials. The improvements will help prevent corrosion and eliminate potential sources of contamination.
“Access to clean drinking water is a right granted to every Pennsylvanian, but our aging infrastructure can threaten this basic necessity for our residents,” Comitta said. “Loans such as this help speed up the ability of water systems to make critical investments in our water system and ensure safe drinking water for every community.”
The award is part of a $236 million investment in water infrastructure projects across the commonwealth. Funding comes from a variety of sources including state funds approved by voters, Growing Greener, Marcellus Legacy funds, the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, federal grants to PENNVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.
“I am extremely happy and thankful for Governor Wolf‘s announcement that Chester County residents will benefit from a $6 million loan to Aqua water company to replace old lead and galvanized service lines in the West Chester service area with at least 18,000 feet of new line,” Pielli said. “This initiative continues our commitment to the constitutional right of clean water for all of our residents.”
PennVEST provides grants and low-interest loans for the construction or improvements to public utilities such as drinking water infrastructure, storm water or sewage treatment facilities, and provide best management practices for non-point source pollution prevention.
For more on this announcement and other investments made by PennVEST go to www.pennvest.pa.gov
###
January 13, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 13, 2023) – Four projects in Chester County to support clean watersheds, conserve land, and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation will receive nearly $1.8 million in total grant funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Reps. Dan Williams, Kristine Howard, and Melissa Shusterman announced today.
“Investments in clean water, open space, and public parks pay dividends in the health, well-being, and overall quality of life in our communities. These funds will support more opportunities for outdoor recreation in Coatesville and Malvern, cleaner streams in Willistown and the surrounding area, and more trees, meadows, and forests across Chester County,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.
The grants, which come through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2), are funded through a variety of state and federal sources, including the federal American Rescue Plan Act, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, and the EPA Chesapeake Bay Program. They are as follows:
• The City of Coatesville will receive $1,136,400 for the rehabilitation of Ash Park, including renovation of a comfort station, construction of a spray park and pedestrian walkways, installation of filtration and recirculation systems, utilities, and electrical upgrades, ADA access, landscaping, project signage, and other related site improvements.
“I’m very happy to see this much-needed funding for Ash Park. In order to be beneficial for everyone, plans for the revitalization of Coatesville should consider all aspects of the community, not just those related to business or infrastructure,” said state Rep. Dan Williams. “The transformation of Ash Park will provide a beautiful recreation area that our children and families will be able to enjoy soon and for generations to come.”
“The City of Coatesville is honored to be one of the projects funded by the Community Conservation Partnerships Program in this funding round. The recognition given to the Ash Park Master Plan speaks to Senator Comitta’s and Rep. Williams’ awareness to provide safe environments designed to enhance the quality of life and youth development opportunities for park visitors and residents,” said James Logan, Coatesville City Manager. “Ash Park is one of Coatesville’s oldest parks in the city, covering 9.3 acres of open recreational space. According to county records, Ash Park was purchased by the City of Coatesville in 1917. This funding serves as the kick-starter for Phase I of a five-year renovation, preservation, and construction improvement project. The new features will help shape programming, events, and other outreach efforts to bring thousands of people to the park. We are excited about the future of Ash Park and thanks to Sen. Comitta and Rep. Williams we are already making great strides toward the future.”
• Chester County will receive $70,000 to install approximately 9 acres of riparian forest buffers, 1 acre of meadow, and 700 trees within Chester County. Work will include landowner outreach and engagement, watershed forestry plantings and post-planting establishment, project signage, and other related site improvements.
• Malvern Borough will receive $324,800 for the rehabilitation and further development of the Randolph Woods Nature Preserve, including renovation of the access drive, installation of a pavilion, fencing and gates, ADA access, landscaping, project signage, and other related site improvements.
“I am so happy to see this wonderful preserve receive this rehabilitation grant,” said state Rep. Kristine Howard said. “The preserve is a tremendous resource for the community.”
“With this additional grant funding, Malvern Borough is preparing for a $1,151,500 investment in the Randolph Woods Nature Preserve. We are thrilled to preserve and protect this natural setting while enhancing access for all our citizens,” said Malvern Borough Council President Amy Finkbiner.
• The Willistown Conservation Trust will receive $260,000 to install approximately 50 acres of meadows in the Crum, Darby, and Ridley Creek watersheds. Work will include landowner outreach and engagement, watershed forestry plantings and post-planting establishment, project signage, and other related site improvements.
“The Willistown watershed areas are of significant importance to the health of our communities. These streams play a vital role in providing clean water and habitats for a variety of wildlife,” said state Rep. Melissa Shusterman. “This grant will ensure Willistown, and other streamside communities can continue to be good stewards of these natural resources that improve the quality of life for the entire region.”
DCNR’s C2P2 grants can fund:
• Planning, acquisition, and development of public parks
• Recreation areas
• Motorized and non-motorized trails
• River conservation and access
• Conservation of open space
• Community and Watershed Forestry
Grants also support regional and statewide partnerships that build the capacity to better develop and manage resources.
The 2023 grant round will open on January 17 and close in April. For more information, visit www.dcnr.pa.gov
January 13, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 13, 2023) – A local organization serving the Coatesville Area School District will receive state grant funding to support youth mentoring and physical fitness programs, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
The Youth Mentoring Partnership (YMP) was awarded more than $420,000 in state funding to provide trauma-informed mentors, safe havens, and social emotional learning curricula in partnership with local schools and community organizations.
“Programs like the ones provided by the Youth Mentoring Partnership help our young people develop the skills necessary to set goals, overcome adversity, and practice kindness, respect, and gratitude,” Comitta said. “I’m glad to support YMP and its mission to lead our children on a path to success in school, work, and life.”
YMP aims to leverage fitness and sports to cultivate healthy relationships, develop critical emotional intelligence skills, and foster opportunities for mentorship with positive figures like community educators, teachers, coaches, civic leaders, and law enforcement.
“Our youth deserve opportunities to succeed, no matter what their circumstance, and YMP is going to do our best to give it to them,” said Mark Mintzer, CEO and Founder of Youth Mentoring Partnership. “Thanks to all for helping us get this grant across the finish line.”
The funding was awarded through the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Competitive grant program through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). The program provides grants and technical assistance to address community violence throughout the Commonwealth.
YMP is one of 122 applications from across Pennsylvania awarded nearly $88.5 million in total funding through the VIP grant program.
The funding will be used for site coordination, personnel, supplies, and operating expenses for the organization’s fitness and sports programming.
For more information on Youth Mentoring Partnership, visit their website: www.youthmp.org
###
January 12, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 12, 2023) – West Chester University (WCU) is one of the first recipients of funding through Pennsylvania’s Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, a new program aimed at combatting student hunger on campus, said state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
“West Chester University is a leader in addressing food and basic needs insecurity on campus. And with these additional resources we will continue to work together to ensure that no student must go hungry to access the dream of higher education,” said Comitta, a WCU alumnus and member of the Senate Education Committee. “I am proud of West Chester and all the institutions of higher education that are taking steps to ensure that all students have access to the nutritious food and other necessities they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”
WCU was awarded more than $54,000 in state grant funding through the program, which Committed championed and successfully worked to secure a $1 million allocation for in this year’s state budget. The initiative is based on legislation introduced in the state Senate by Comitta and in the state House by Representatives Malcolm Kenyatta and Jennifer O’Mara.
“I am very grateful to First Lady Frances Wolf and key legislators including Senator Carolyn Comitta and Representatives Jennifer O’Mara and Malcolm Kenyatta for their leadership in elevating the issue of college student food insecurity. The funding we have been awarded through the PA Hunger Free Campus Grant will allow WCU to expand our capacity to serve students experiencing food insecurity through additional programs and infrastructure both on our main campus and at our satellite campus in Philadelphia. I am also hopeful that moving forward Governor Shapiro and the new legislature will continue to prioritize this critical social justice issue,” said Ashlie Delshad, a WCU professor and a founder of the WCU Campus Community Garden.
At WCU, students can access the Campus Resource Pantry, which offers non-perishable food, fresh produce from campus gardens, personal care items, school supplies, and winter and career clothing. It is open to all undergraduate and graduate students regardless of need level.
“WCU has been a leader in the state of Pennsylvania when it comes to taking action to address the issue of college student food insecurity; however, student need continues to outpace campus resources and food price inflation has further compounded this problem. Consistent with national averages, a quarter to a third of WCU students experience food insecurity and students who identify as female, as LGBTQ+, as Black or as Latinx are all at heightened risk of experiencing food insecurity,” Delshad said.
Last summer, Pennsylvania First Lady Frances Wolf unveiled the Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, featuring the PA Hunger-Free Campus and PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designations, to build a coalition of Pennsylvania institutions of IHEs focused on addressing hunger and other basic needs for their students, creating opportunities for connection among student hunger advocates, providing resources and strategies for campuses, and supporting opportunities to apply for grants related to addressing food insecurity.
“With more than a third of students knowing someone who dropped out of college due to food insecurity during the pandemic, hunger affects far too many postsecondary students across the nation,” said Gov. Wolf. “The PA Hunger-Free Campus designation and grant program gives Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities the tools they need to combat hunger on their campuses and provide students with access to healthy food so they can stay focused, learn, and grow.”
Through the 2022-2023 PA Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program, colleges with the PA Hunger-Free Campus or PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation applied for competitive funding in an amount up to:
- $20,000 for institutions with 3,000 or fewer learners;
- $40,000 for institutions with 3,001 to 7,000 learners; and
- $60,000 for institutions with 7,001 learners or more.
Postsecondary institutions that received a PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation implemented additional innovative solutions to address student hunger and other basic needs for their campus community in conjunction with demonstrating additional criteria. Examples of these initiatives included offering a variety of meal plans, including an option that provides ten or fewer meals weekly to avoid interfering with SNAP eligibility, creating or implementing meal-sharing programs, educating student leaders on campus to develop student-centered programs, or facilitating innovative community partnerships.
“Hunger should never be what holds someone back from taking steps to invest in their future – and the future of Pennsylvania. From high school graduates pursuing career pathways to adults making career changes and adapting to shifts in workforce needs, students deserve proper support in achieving their higher education goals,” said First Lady France Wolf. “I’m proud that the Hunger-Free Campus program can offer that support and look forward to seeing the innovative ways that schools address food insecurity on their campuses.”
The grants are awarded to address food insecurity on campus, including expanding access to food options, creating awareness initiatives, and upgrading facilities. Awardees will be able to utilize the grant funds until December 31, 2023.
The PA Hunger-Free Campus designations are reopened and institutions can apply. Designees receive a certificate of recognition and placement on the PA Hunger-Free Campus website, and they also have an opportunity to apply for future grant opportunities.
###
January 10, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 10, 2023) – Residents have until Friday, January 13 to review the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) broadband access map and challenge any inaccuracies regarding location, service, speed, or availability, said State Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.
The FCC’s broadband access map shows all broadband serviceable locations across the nation where fixed broadband internet access service is or can be installed. It can be viewed at www.broadbandmap.fcc.gov. The Commonwealth’s allocation of funding for broadband deployment under the federal infrastructure law is dependent upon the map being accurate. Pennsylvanians should visit the map to search for their home address to determine whether the information listed by the FCC is accurate.
“Pennsylvania is in line to receive significant federal funds to support a coordinated and strategic rollout of broadband areas without reliable service. Public input is key. The map represents a crucial first step in the process to ensure resources are allocated effectively and efficiently,” Comitta said. “I encourage everyone to review it for accuracy, because reliable broadband is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity in nearly every facet of our lives.”
“Reliable and consistent broadband access needs to be the standard for every home and business throughout our Commonwealth. My office has been in constant contact with our partners and stakeholders in different municipalities to ensure that the broadband issues of each community are acknowledged and addressed,” said Kane, a member of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA). “We’ve received valuable feedback from multiple township managers, community leaders, and public officials, and it is clear that there’s a critical need for dependable and affordable broadband all over Pennsylvania. The PBDA is here to strengthen connectivity in our Commonwealth and connect the FCC to the realities facing southern Chester County. We are closing in on getting this map right, but we have to continue to hear from those with broadband issues.”
Pennsylvanians should submit challenges to the map to help improve its accuracy by January 13, 2023. Challenges to the map can include:
- A location that meets the FCC’s definition of a broadband serviceable location is missing from the map.
- A location’s broadband serviceability is incorrectly identified.
- Information such as the address or unit count for the location is incorrect.
- The location’s placement (its geographic coordinates) is incorrect.
There are two ways to submit a challenge: by a single location, or in bulk. The location challenge can be completed by individual consumers utilizing the map itself. Bulk challengers will be required to use the Broadband Data Collection (BDC) platform to submit information to the FCC.
In addition, the PBDA is hosting its last broadband listening session on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg. Public participation is encouraged virtually or in-person at this hybrid listening session but in-person space is limited. In-person will be held at the PA Department of Agriculture Farm Show Complex & Expo Center, 2300 North Cameron Street, Susquehanna Room, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Additional information about the Challenge Process can be found on the FCC’s website. A consumer may also challenge mobile data coverage through the FCC Speed Test App – a free application that can be downloaded from the Apple or Google Play Store.
###
January 9, 2023
Harrisburg, Pa (January 9, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta will again serve as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, continuing her work to preserve our environmental treasures, address climate change, and transition to a clean energy future.
In addition, Comitta was appointed to serve on the following Senate committees for the 2023-24 legislative session: Education, Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Aging and Youth, and Local Government.
“As we enter another session year, I look forward to advancing meaningful legislation that creates a strong, safe, healthy, and prosperous future for Chester County children, families, workers, and businesses,” Comitta said. “This session and these new committee assignments offer another opportunity to address the most pressing issues facing our county and our Commonwealth.”
As minority chair of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, Comitta continues to focus her work on investing in the clean energy economy, cutting harmful emissions and pollution, and creating a sustainable future for all Pennsylvania communities. In addition, she has championed efforts to protect the night sky from excessive light pollution, promote energy efficiency and renewables, and support the health of pollinators and their habitats.
A former public school teacher, Comitta is also looking forward to building on the progress being made toward fully and fairly funding Pennsylvania’s public schools.
“In this year’s budget, we made historic investments in our children’s education, including $16 million in new funding for Chester County public schools,” Comitta said. “We have another chance this year to further our efforts by fairly funding our schools, lessening the burden on local taxpayers, and helping our students and young people recover from the learning loss associated with the pandemic. The pathway to career and lifelong success begins with a positive educational experience.”
This is the first session year that Comitta will be joining the Senate Aging and Youth and Local Government Committees. She previously served on the Aging and Older Adult Services and Local Government committees as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, serving the 156th Legislative District.
“As a former borough councilor and Mayor of West Chester, I know the impact that local governments can have on the everyday lives of residents,” Comitta added. “I hope to empower our local municipalities and provide support so they can make decisions in the best interest of their community.”
For more information on Senator Comitta’s legislative priorities go to pasenatorcomitta.com
###
January 6, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 6, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Dan Williams announced that Cleveland-Cliffs Coatesville was awarded $1.4 million in state grant funding to support the facility’s rail improvements. The funds, recently approved by State Transportation Commission, will support track rehabilitation at the Coatesville melt shop.
“It’s important that we continue to invest in our rail infrastructure to support job growth in the business and manufacturing community while keeping Pennsylvania competitive in the global economy,” Comitta said.
Cleveland-Cliffs is the largest flat-rolled steel producer in North America. The Company is vertically integrated from mined raw materials, direct reduced iron, and ferrous scrap to primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. The Coatesville plant produces steel plate in an electric arc furnace and has the capacity to produce 800,000 tons of raw steel annually. The plant, which employs more than 600 workers, produces steel plate for the aircraft and aerospace, construction, distribution, energy, heavy equipment, military, mold and tool, and shipbuilding industries.
“For more than a century the mill has been one of the largest employers and key to our economy in the greater Coatesviille area,” Williams said. “I’m proud to have helped bring this funding to Cleveland-Cliffs so they can complete critical upgrades to their internal rail system. One of my greatest priorities is to continue to bring support for both the large and small businesses of the region.”
The funds come as part of $26 million in total funding approved for 24 projects across the Commonwealth through the Rail Transportation Assistance Program and the Rail Freight Assistance Program. The projects will enhance freight mobility while creating or sustaining more than 340 jobs across Pennsylvania.
According to PennDOT, the RTAP and RFAP provide financial assistance for investment in rail freight infrastructure to preserve essential rail freight service where economically feasible and preserve or stimulate economic development through the generation of new or expanded rail freight service.
January 6, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 7, 2023) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta recently secured $50,000 in state funding for the United Way of Chester County’s new Leadership and Innovation Center.
“The United Way of Chester County is the backbone of support, resources, and knowledge for so many nonprofit organizations and volunteers who are making a positive difference in the lives of residents and families,” Comitta said. “I’m thrilled that the United Way has a new, permanent home and one that will serve as a community asset for all people. And I want to thank the volunteers, staff, supporters, and donors who continue to make its all-important work possible.”
The funds helped outfit the new state-of-the-art facility with training tables, chairs, desks, smart boards, audio and visual technology, wiring, and other equipment and furniture.
“When we took on this ambitious project for the community, Senator Comitta immediately reached out to offer whatever support we needed. She has been a great friend to United Way of Chester County and securing these funds for this project allowed us to create the best facility possible for nonprofits throughout the county to use. We are so grateful for her tireless efforts on our behalf,” said Chris Saello, President and CEO of the United Way of Chester County.
Over the summer, the United Way of Chester County acquired and moved into a new 5,000-square-foot building in Exton. In addition to the Leadership Training Center and Social Innovation Lab, the facility houses the organization’s headquarters and offices, as well as a Financial Independence Hub.
The Financial Independence Hub helps residents navigate a path toward a more secure financial future and serves as a site for the United Way’s Mobile Home Tax Reassessment registration program and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program.
The Social Innovation Lab is designed to support the next generation of social entrepreneurs by jumpstarting innovative, collaborative, and creative approaches to community problems. It also includes incubation space for small and start-up nonprofits in a co-working environment.
The Leadership Training Center offers programs, workshops, and guidance for nonprofits working to scale up their operations to meet community needs, as well as a meeting space for community and other nonprofit events.
By moving into its own building, which is completely paid for thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters, the United Way of Chester County is freeing up an additional $1 million every 10 years in funds that would otherwise be used for rental and occupancy costs – resources that can be invested in the community
For more about the United Way of Chester County, visit www.unitedwaychestercounty.org
###
January 6, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 6, 2023) – More Pennsylvanians with disabilities and their families will soon be able to access a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses thanks to a new law passed at the federal level, said U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The ABLE Age Adjustment Act expands ABLE program eligibility by raising the age limit for the onset of a disability from 26 to 46 beginning in 2025. The change, led by U.S. Senator Bob Casey and supported by Houlahan, will open up the program to an estimated 6 million more Americans, including one million veterans.
The Pennsylvania ABLE Program allows eligible individuals with qualified disabilities, and their families and friends, a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses through a savings account while maintaining government benefits.
“On behalf of all Americans living with disabilities, I am proud to have put my voice and vote behind the ABLE Age Adjustment Act. This law will enable more Pennsylvanians to plan for their long-term care and disability expenses, empowering them to not only reach greater economic independence, but to do so sooner,” Houlahan said. “Personally, I am proud to celebrate this win alongside my nephew who lives with disabilities. I will continue fighting in Congress to ensure that all people have access to the same opportunities so they can provide for themselves and their families.”
“The Pennsylvania ABLE Program continues to be a success story in empowering individuals with disabilities and their families to save for future expenses without jeopardizing the aid and support they rely on,” Comitta said. “Expanding the opportunity to help more Pennsylvanians, including more veterans makes sense and is the right thing to do. I want to thank U.S. Senator Casey, U.S. Rep. Houlahan, and all those who supported this important change.”
The Pennsylvania ABLE Program allows for up to $16,000 in savings per year (this limit will increase to $17,000 starting on Jan. 1, 2023) and up to $100,000 total without impacting government benefits. Funds are easy to access and may be used for a wide range of disability-related expenses.
Pennsylvania ABLE account owners can choose from six different investment options and an interest-bearing checking account. Contributions and earnings in ABLE accounts can be used to help save and pay for short- or long-term disability-related expenses. Qualifying expenses include education, housing, transportation, assistive technology, health care, financial management, and more.
Since being established five years ago, nearly 6,300 Pennsylvanians have opened ABLE accounts and saved more than $72 million for disability expenses, according to the Pennsylvania Treasury. And the Pennsylvania ABLE Program is one of the largest, and fastest growing in the country, accounting for nearly 25 percent of the total assets of the 18-member National ABLE Alliance.
Eligible individuals can begin saving by enrolling in an account at paable.gov
###
January 5, 2023
West Chester, Pa (January 5, 2023) – To help ensure local blood banks have the critical supply they need, State Senator Carolyn Comitta is partnering with the American Red Cross and the Oscar Lasko YMCA to host a blood donation drive on Friday, February 24th.
The blood drive will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Oscar Lasko YMCA, 1 East Chestnut Street in West Chester.
Interested donors are encouraged to schedule their appointments in advance via the American Red Cross’s website and enter sponsor code “Senator Comitta” or call 1-800-RedCross. Walk-ins will be accepted based on availability.
“Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood, and donations are crucial to ensure patients receive the care they need,” Comitta said. “To make sure our community has an adequate blood supply, I urge all eligible individuals to schedule a donation appointment and help save a life.”
According to the Red Cross, now is a key time to donate, as blood banks typically experience a seasonal shortage due to a drop in donations during the holidays. In addition, blood banks continue to recover from the shortage associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, and that, coupled with the prevalence of flu and RSV this season, has also impacted donations.
Most individuals are eligible to donate blood in Pennsylvania every 56 days, up to six times a year if they are:
- In good health and feeling well,
- 16 years old or older; and
- Weigh a minimum of 110 pounds.
For more information on donor eligibility or to register online, visit www.redcrossblood.org.
###
