November 12, 2024
West Chester, PA — State Senator Carolyn Comitta and Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity recently announced that nearly $15,000 in unclaimed property has been returned to the Borough of West Chester in Chester County.
“We are always happy to help return unclaimed property to its rightful owners, in this case the people and taxpayers of West Chester Borough. Our office regularly works to identify local municipalities, school districts, nonprofits, and others who have unclaimed property and connect them with the Pennsylvania Treasury to expedite the process,” Comitta said. “We appreciate the Treasury and its staff for their ongoing efforts to reunite people and entities with their unclaimed assets.”
“Working with Senator Comitta to return this money to West Chester was an absolute pleasure,” Treasurer Garrity said. “One of my top priorities is getting the more than $4.5 billion of unclaimed property in Treasury’s vault back to its rightful owners – whether that be individuals, businesses, nonprofits, or local government agencies like the borough. It’s great news that this money can now be put to good use for the residents of West Chester.”
The $14,858.56 returned to West Chester includes 29 individual properties ranging in value from $9.19 to $6,904. The oldest property dates back to 2001, while the most recent is from 2020. Properties returned include funds from accounts payable checks, cashier’s checks, claims payment checks, credit balances, escrow accounts, premium refunds, refunds/rebates, and uncashed checks. How the funds are spent will be determined by borough officials.
Treasurer Garrity has returned more than $17.7 million to nearly 100 local government agencies, including counties and municipalities.
Treasury is working to return more than $4.5 billion in unclaimed property to its rightful owners. More than one in ten Pennsylvanians is owed unclaimed property, and the average claim is worth about $1,600.
Unclaimed property can include dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance policies, contents of forgotten safe deposit boxes and more. State law requires businesses to report unclaimed property to Treasury after three years of dormancy.
Treasury keeps tangible unclaimed property for about three years before it is auctioned. Auction proceeds are kept in perpetuity for owners to claim. Military decorations and memorabilia are never auctioned.
To learn more about unclaimed property or to search Treasury’s database, visit patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property.
November 6, 2024
West Chester, Pa (November 6, 2024) – The Chester County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CCABVI) is expanding its services to reach more people and community members, thanks to state funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
Comitta recently secured $25,000 in state grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services for CCABVI to expand its “library” of vision support equipment that can be loaned to those in need for extended periods of time.
“We offer thanks to the office of State Senator Carolyn Comitta for its guidance and assistance in procuring these funds,” said Tracey Melia, CCABVI Board President.
According to Melia, the nonprofit organization offers a demonstration lab on site with the support equipment as well as a traveling demonstration “kit” that can be used in assisting the homebound. In addition, the funds will be used to hire an occupational therapist who can conduct home visits to its caseload of 480 individuals.
“The Chester County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired has served Chester County for more than 70 years. I am proud to secure this funding to help even more people with blindness or vision loss live safe, happy, healthy, productive and independent lives,” Comitta said.
The mission of the CCABVI is to prevent blindness and vision impairment through public education and improve the quality of life for those experiencing blindness or vision loss through direct service or referral.
CCABVI provides referrals for free eye exams and glasses to those in need and offers employment opportunities to the blind and visually impaired at an on-site textile workshop.
For more information on the CCABVI and its services, visit www.chescoblind.org.
November 1, 2024
West Chester, Pa (November 1, 2024) – Five projects that improve municipal services, support outdoor recreation, expand access to healthcare, and invest in educational opportunities were awarded $3.8 million in total state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
“Strong municipal services and public works, access to world-class healthcare, top-notch educational facilities and programs, and extensive opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors – these are all part of our excellent quality of life in Chester County. As state Senator, I continue to support investments in these community assets, so they can be enjoyed by all people now and for generations to come” Comitta said.
The funds, which were awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), are as follows:
- $1 million to East Fallowfield Township for a new municipal complex. The township has already conducted a feasibility study on the complex, which will combine the police department and administrative offices. The funds will support construction and related activities, including land development, site work, highway occupancy permitting, and an extension for the public water and sewer. Funding will also help purchase equipment for the new municipal complex, like access control, security, and furniture.
- $1 million for Paoli Hospital to add more patient rooms by renovating an existing medical building into a patient care unit. The project, which will result in additional patient rooms, is part of is a short-term strategy to accommodate increased inpatient volume. Longer-term campus master planning is underway with a focus on further increasing inpatient bed capacity at Paoli Hospital to meet the current (and growing) demand.
- $800,000 for West Whiteland Township to support the construction of the township’s new public works facility.
- $500,000 for the Chester County Intermediate Unit for the construction of the Child and Career Development Center’s new Great Valley campus. The new campus, situated on 22 acres in East Whiteland Township, accommodate 190 students from across the county. It is being designed to accommodate students with multiple disabilities, including physical and emotional challenges. It will include specialized gymnasiums, therapy centers, classrooms, emotional support, and physical support areas, including outdoor all-abilities playgrounds and recreation areas. Construction on the campus broke ground earlier this past summer and is expected to be completed in September 2026.
- $500,000 for Natural Lands to make improvements at the Stroud Preserve in East Bradford. Funds will be used to demolish and reconstruct an aging bridge, construction of a new bathroom facility, repaving, and stormwater management and flood mitigation improvements.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a state grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
To receive funding, projects must have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity.
Through her leadership in the legislature, Comitta has brought back tens of millions of dollars in RACP funding to support various community revitalization and economic development projects benefitting the people of Chester County.
October 31, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 31, 2024) – The Charles A. Melton Art and Education Center is getting a new digital marquee and a repaved parking lot thanks to state funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The $62,000 grant comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Keystone Communities Initiative Program.
Melton Center officials said the new marquee and parking lot improvements will help the nonprofit organization welcome more children, families, and people to take advantage of its growing array of offerings, including youth and adult sports leagues, health and wellness screenings, arts programs, educational activities, a community café, and a new childcare center.
“The Melton Center is and has always been a special place in East End of West Chester where everyone can come together and access resources and programs to help us grow together and thrive together,” said Comitta, who previously served as Mayor of West Chester. “I am thrilled to secure this support and hope it helps a whole new generation of children and families continue to access, enjoy, and benefit from this community asset.”
“The Charles A. Melton Art and Education Center is more than just a place to play sports; it’s a catalyst for community and personal growth and development. By nurturing creativity and providing opportunities for education and engagement, we’re fostering a vibrant, thriving community that attracts a diverse clientele, and visitors from far and wide. This support will allow the Melton Center to attract more visitors with safer parking and a digital marquee to advertise our activities and events. We would like to thank Senator Comitta and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development for their continuous support,” said Ken Winston, Executive Director of the Melton Center.
For more information about the Melton Center and its programs, visit westchestercommunitycenter.org
October 25, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 25, 2024) – In recognition of their ongoing work to support the health of mothers, children, and families, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and her team were honored with the Community Partner Award from the Maternal and Child Health Consortium of Chester County (MCHC).
“I am honored to share this award with all of our partners In Chester County we are fortunate to have so many people and organizations, like MCHC, that are dedicated to creating a better, brighter future for this generation and the next one,” said Comitta, who serves in the Senate Women’s Health Caucus. “I want to thank my team and all of the staff and volunteers at MCHC for their work on behalf of safe, healthy, and happy communities.”
Milena Lanz, the Executive Director of MCHC, expressed the nonprofit organization’s “sincere gratitude for the invaluable support and partnership that Senator Comitta and her staff have provided for several years in furthering our mission.”
Lanz was also honored at the event for more than 25 years of dedicated service to nonprofits throughout the Greater Philadelphia area.
They were honored at MCHC’s annual Celebrating Families Dinner and Silent Auction.
Comitta has been working closely with MCHC since her time as State Representative. Now, as state Senator, she is expanding her work to support expectant and new moms and families by:
- Securing $50,000 for MCHC to provide one-on-one support throughout pregnancy.
- Hosting her first annual Community Baby Shower in partnership with MCHC.
- Holding a diaper drive and a book drive to sustain resources for MCHC families.
- Supporting a $2.6 million investment to prevent maternal mortality in this year’s state budget.
- Extending post-partum care to one year (instead of 60 days) for mothers on Medicaid in Pennsylvania.
- Passing legislation (House Bill 2127) to provide new mothers with greater access to resources to address postpartum depression.
- Passing legislation (House Bill 1608) to extend Medicaid coverage to doula services.
- Supporting legislation (Senate Bill 1262) to modernize the regulations governing midwives.
- Joining the Black Maternal Health Caucus to combat racial disparities in maternal healthcare.
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The Maternal and Child Health Consortium of Chester County is a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that children and families have the skills, knowledge, and resources to start healthy, stay healthy, and succeed in school. To learn more, visit ccmchc.org
October 24, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 23, 2024) – The Downingtown Area School District will receive more than $1.1 million in state funding to replace windows at two elementary schools, state Senator Carolyn Comitta, state Rep. Christina Sappey, and state Rep. Danielle Friel Otten announced.
The funding, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program, was approved today by the Commonwealth Finance Authority:
The grants are as follows:
- $618,000 to replace 92 windows at Bradford Heights Elementary School. The school’s current sliding windows are inoperable due to corrosion and its double-hung windows have deteriorated perimeter gaskets that allow air infiltration. The new windows will provide energy savings, as well as health and safety benefits through improved air quality and easier, safer operation. The new windows also feature simpler locking mechanisms that enhance security.
- $550,000 to replace the windows at the East Ward Elementary School. The windows from the original 1964 building are energy inefficient and present safety risks. Meanwhile, the school’s 1996 addition has wood-clad windows, which have deteriorated to the point that they can no longer be locked. The proposed window replacement will improve air quality and enhance safety and security by featuring appropriate opening height and functional locking mechanisms.
In addition, the Downingtown Area School District was also awarded $40,000 in state funding to replace 29 automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) that are beyond their recommended lifespan. The investment will help ensure that students, teachers, and staff in the district’s 16 school buildings have access to tools to respond to life-threatening health emergencies.
“These investments help ensure that our schools remain safe, healthy, and productive places for students to learn and teachers to teach. As a former public school educator, I know that families entrust our schools with the well-being of their children each day,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee, said. “These funds will save energy costs while enhancing security and ensuring we’re prepared to adequately respond to life-threatening cardiac emergencies.”
“I’m always happy when we can provide a win for everyone. These school district window projects are cost-saving investments that save taxpayer money, improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. I’m also extremely pleased that Downingtown will be able to replace expired AED’s with this funding. I’m very proud of their work to prevent sudden cardiac arrest,” Sappey said.
“Investment in our school facilities is essential for the health and safety of students and staff,” Otten said. “This funding will help Downingtown Area School District address safety and energy loss concerns by replacing old, inefficient windows in two elementary school buildings. These grants will also potentially save lives, as a portion of the funds will help to pay for the replacement of 29 AED units districtwide that are beyond their recommended lifespan.”
The Pennsylvania Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program provides grants to public school districts and area career and technical schools for eligible facility improvement projects.
The program was funded with a $100 million allocation in this year’s state budget.
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October 23, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 22, 2024) – Legislation introduced by state Senator Carolyn Comitta to update the Pennsylvania Borough Code was signed into law this week by Governor Josh Shapiro.
Senate Bill 765, signed into law as Act 110 of 2024, makes changes to modernize the Borough Code, ensuring it aligns with recent revisions to the First Class Township Code.
“These changes aim to help boroughs operate with more flexibility, autonomy, and consistency,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Local Government Committee.
The legislation, supported by the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs, passed the Senate in June and the House earlier this month.
Comitta, a former West Chester Mayor and West Chester Borough Council member, also serves on the Pennsylvania Local Government Commission.
Pennsylvania is home to 955 borough governments, including 15 in Chester County.
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October 22, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 22, 2024) – Fifteen local municipalities throughout Chester County were awarded state grant funding for projects that support public safety, revitalize historic downtowns, improve stormwater and wastewater management, install new bridges and sidewalks, and invest in renewable energy, members of the Chester County State Legislative Delegation announced.
The twenty-two projects that were awarded funding are represented by state Senator Carolyn Comitta and State Representatives Christina Sappey, Chris Pielli, Dan Williams, Danielle Friel Otten, Melissa Shusterman, and Kristine Howard. In total, they amount to a $7.4 million state investment in Chester County municipalities and local communities.
“As a former mayor, I know just how important these investments are to local communities and municipalities. In the state Senate, I continue to work to secure funds that directly benefit the health, safety, prosperity and quality of life of residents, workers, and families throughout Chester County,” said Comitta.
“I am pleased to work alongside Senator Comitta to support funding for these projects that invest in the longevity of our infrastructure and keep our communities safe and up to date,” Sappey said. “It is the direct result of strong state and local partnerships that work to combine resources and address needs.”
“I am thrilled and extremely grateful that the work Senator Comitta and I are doing in Harrisburg has helped to deliver to our District this important funding improving the health, safety, and welfare of our community,” Pielli said.
“I’m very proud we’ve secured this funding to strengthen our first responders. The new equipment this funding provides will enable them to come to our aid more quickly in times of crisis. We can all feel safer knowing that they have the tools to ensure our safety and welfare,” said Williams.
“Flooding is a significant concern in Downingtown Borough, and this state funding will help borough officials mitigate impacts to residents and promote public safety,” Otten said. “I am pleased to help bring funding dollars back to the district for these essential projects, and I applaud the Borough for their proactive efforts to protect residents and prepare for future storms and flooding events.”
“Willistown’s aging sewer system is under increasing strain as our community grows. These grants will help modernize the existing wastewater management system so it can continue to serve residents and enable new ones to be connected,” said Shusterman.
“Investments in safe, walkable streets will improve the economic, cultural, and physical health of our neighborhoods. This grant will encourage everyone to get out for a walk, stop by a local business, or meet up with a friend. It’s an investment in people,” Shusterman added.
“This is a tremendous boon to the district,” Howard said. “From revitalization efforts to solar power installation to flood mitigation, these grant dollars will ensure that Chester County remains among the best places to live in Pennsylvania.”
The funds, which come through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account Program, were approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
They are as follows:
Public Safety and Emergency Services:
- $675,000 for the City of Coatesville to purchase two new pieces of fire equipment: a Seagrave Pumper Fire Engine, and a Seagrave Tractor-Drawn Aerial Apparatus Ladder Truck (Comitta, Williams).
- $550,000 for East Goshen Township to purchase a new fire truck pumper for Goshen Fire Company (Comitta, Pielli).
- $495,000 for Malvern Borough to purchase a new, larger 3,000-gallon pumper-tanker truck (Comitta, Howard).
- $451,000 for Modena Borough to support the purchase of two 2024 Ford F-550 diesel ambulances for Modena Fire Company 1 (Comitta, Williams).
- $93,000 for Modena Borough to purchase medical and safety equipment for emergency medical service first responders at Modena Fire Company 1 (Comitta, Williams).
- $57,000 for South Coatesville Borough to replace aging computers and purchase a license plate reader for its police department (Comitta, Williams).
Stormwater, Sewer, and Wastewater Management:
- $25,000 for Downingtown Borough to purchase and install new flood monitoring equipment along the East Branch of the Brandywine Creek as part of an upgraded system to alert and notify residents during flood events (Comitta, Otten).
- $500,000 for East Caln Township to construct stormwater inlets and roadway swales along Downing Road and Downing Circle (Comitta, Howard).
- $500,000 for West Bradford Township for upgrades to the Dupont Wastewater Treatment Plant (Comitta, Sappey).
- $750,000 for West Chester Borough to upgrade the Goose Creek Sanitary Sewer with larger pipes (Comitta, Pielli).
- $600,000 for Willistown Township to replace aging equipment at Pump Station 3 and evaluate the condition of its sewer system by cleaning and televising the sewers, which date back to the 1970s (Comitta, Shusterman).
- $175,000 for Willistown Township to connect 13 properties on West Chester Pike to public sewers (Comitta, Shusterman).
Bridges and Sidewalks:
- $505,000 for Easttown Township to complete a streets initiative focused on the Route 30 corridor in the Village of Berwyn (Comitta, Shusterman).
- $350,000 for East Bradford Township to stabilize a bridge and streambank along Ravine Road (Comitta, Pielli).
- $250,000 for East Fallowfield Township to replace a failing underground culvert pipe located at a stream crossing underneath Saw Mill Road (Comitta, Sappey).
- $85,000 for West Goshen Township to install approximately 350 feet of sidewalk along the south side of West Rosedale Avenue (Comitta, Pielli).
Community Revitalization:
- $50,000 for Malvern Borough to prepare a revitalization plan for the nine-block-long King Street business district (Comitta, Howard).
Municipal Upgrades:
- $685,000 for South Coatesville Borough to restore the administration building, which was significantly damaged by flooding from Hurricane Ida in 2002 (Comitta, Williams).
- $50,000 for Valley Township to install security fencing and automated gates at the Valley Township municipal complex and public works garage (Comitta, Williams).
- $500,000 for West Whiteland Township to construct an on-site solar array at its public works facility to support the goal of running the facility and garage completely on clean, renewable energy (Comitta, Howard).
- $44,000 for West Whiteland Township to install a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic array on the grounds of Boot Road Park to power the park’s exterior lighting and public recreational facility. The solar array is expected to save the township $1,400 and reduce emissions by one metric ton of CO2 annually (Comitta, Howard).
The Local Share Account program is designed to distribute funds derived from gaming revenue to support community and economic development projects.
Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, economic development agencies, redevelopment authorities, land banks, and councils of government. Eligible projects must improve the quality of life of citizens in the community and must be owned and maintained by an eligible applicant or a nonprofit organization.
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October 21, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 21, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined leaders from Aqua Pennsylvania, state Senator Carolyn Comitta, and federal, state, and local officials to discuss the importance of taking action against lead, specifically with regards to identifying and removing lead and galvanized service lines, protecting public health, and the federal investments expediating these efforts.
Officials gathered today in West Chester, Pennsylvania to celebrate over $4 million being invested by Aqua throughout parts of Chester County. The loan, administered by PENNVEST, is from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund which has received substantial funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As part of the celebration, officials were able to see first-hand the removal and replacement of a residential lead service line.
“The Biden-Harris Administration believes that any risk from lead in drinking water is unacceptable, which is why we are taking a whole-of-government approach to get the lead out of our communities,” said Adam Ortiz, EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator. “With each dollar invested, each home surveyed, and each pipe replaced, we’re one step closer to removing all lead pipes within the next ten years.”
“We’re proud to be at the forefront of this game-changing project for our customers and we remain committed to using our expertise to get the Lead out across Pennsylvania,” said Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca. “This important work proves we’re always ready and willing to take the extra step to protect our customers. I’d like to thank PENNVEST for its partnership on this project and so many others.”
Despite their installation being banned nearly 40 years ago, there are still an estimated 9.2 million legacy lead service lines delivering water in cities and towns across the country, many of which are in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering $15 billion across the country to remove these lead pipes, in line with President Biden’s goal of removing 100% of lead service lines.
“Over the past four years, PENNVEST has funded 71 projects that will, when complete, remove nearly 29,000 lead lines and lead components from water systems throughout the Commonwealth”, said Rebecca Hayden, PENNVEST Project Manager for the Eastern tier or Pennsylvania. “With significant federal funding – $268 million – and active public and private partners ready to do the work, PENNVEST is honored to play a role in keeping our communities and environment safe.”
Earlier this month, the EPA issued Lead and Copper Rule Improvements which establishes achievable, common-sense practices to identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. The public health and economic benefits of the final rule are estimated to be up to 13 times greater than the costs, and together with new funding, water systems will be able to accelerate removal of lead pipes and create good-paying local jobs in the process.
“Watching the removal of lead pipes in front of a West Chester resident’s home today was so gratifying, and I commend the EPA team that made this project happen,” said Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06). “We got to see the federal government in action through the funding of these pipe replacements, the Commonwealth in action through the designation of funds, and AQUA and its partners in action removing lead pipes and replacing them with copper pipes delivering safe and clean water.”
“I want to thank the EPA, the Biden-Harris administration, Rep. Houlahan, PennVEST, and Aqua Pennsylvania for providing the resources, making the commitment, and forging the partnerships to remove lead service lines and ensure our drinking water is safe and clean. This is an investment in our economy and the health of our communities for our families, children, and grandchildren,” said state Senator Carolyn Comitta, Minority Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.
In addition to significant investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA also has several programs and initiatives to further progress to identify, remove, and replace lead service lines such as the Lead Service Line Replacement Accelerators and Get The Lead Out programs both of which the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is a partner.
October 18, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 17, 2024) – Thirteen Chester County nonprofit organizations that serve diverse communities were awarded state funding to combat hate crimes by enhancing the safety and security of their facilities, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
The funds, approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) today, are as follows:
- Beth Israel Congregation of Chester County $15,000
- Chabad Lubavitch $24,000
- Congregation B’nai Jacob $17,000
- Cornerstone Christian Fellowship $16,000
- Domestic Violence Center of Chester County $70,000
- Grace Assembly of God $7,000
- Islamic Society of Chester County $150,000
- Kesher Israel Congregation $49,875
- Masjid Al Rahman of Chester Country, Inc $25,000
- Mount Carmel Church of God in Christ $25,000
- Saint Patrick Roman Catholic Church $50,000
- South Eastern Pennsylvania Sikh Gurdwara $25,000
- Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church $150,000
The funding for Chester County organizations, more than $620,000 in total, comes as part of $10 million awarded statewide to 208 nonprofit organizations across 31 Pennsylvania counties through the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program.
Established by the legislature in Act 83 of 2019, the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program provides grants to nonprofit organizations that principally serve individuals, groups, or institutions that often face bias and hate crimes. Eligible grant projects include a variety of measures to enhance security ranging from equipment and technology upgrades to planning, threat awareness, and response training.
Comitta, then a state representative, voted for the legislation (House Bill 859) that created the Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program. This year, as a state Senator, she supported doubling the program’s investment from $5 million to $10 million in the state budget.
“Hate, bigotry, and threats of violence and intimidation will not be tolerated in Chester County or in any place for that matter. I hope these investments help give faith communities added peace of mind that we all have the right to worship freely, safely, and without fear,” Comitta said. “And I am pleased that we expanded Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program to protect families and safeguard religious freedom in more communities across the Commonwealth.”
“All Pennsylvanians deserve to worship peacefully, no matter what you look like, where you come from, or who you pray or do not pray to,” said Governor Shapiro. “That’s why, in our latest budget, we doubled the Commonwealth’s investment in the nonprofit security grant fund to help places like mosques, churches, and synagogues equip themselves with security measures. Under Lieutenant Governor Davis’ leadership at PCCD, we’re working together to drive out this funding to our communities and ensure that every Pennsylvanian has the real freedom that comes when you can walk down the street in your community without worrying about violence.”
“The Shapiro-Davis Administration is committed to fostering a sense of safety and belonging for everyone, ensuring that no matter who you are, where you come from, or what you believe in, you can access services without the fear of hate or violence,” said Lt. Governor Austin Davis, chair of PCCD. “Thanks to the additional $5 million our Administration secured in this year’s budget, 102 entities, out of the 208 awarded, who have never received this funding before will be able to strengthen security at their facilities, ensuring those they serve feel safer while accessing services.”
The Pennsylvania Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program, now in its fifth year, was established in response to the 2018 attack on the Jewish community at the Tree of Life, New Light, and Dor Hadash congregations in Pittsburgh.
Since its inception, the program has provided $25 million in funding to more than 580 organizations. Based on reported data of the number of people who visit these facilities, it is estimated that approximately four million people across the Commonwealth have been impacted by this funding to date.
PCCD selects awardees in consultation with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and the Pennsylvania State Police. Eligible applicants are included within a bias motivation category for single bias hate crime incidents as identified by the FBI’s Hate Crime Statistics publication. The categories include race/ethnicity/ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, and gender identity.
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October 11, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 11, 2024) –To help foster a love of reading in children, state Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane secured new funding for Arts Holding Hands and Hearts (AHHAH) to administer Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Chester County.
The program sends one age-appropriate book each month to children in Chester County from birth through age five, at no cost to families.
“Reading at an early age is important for developing language skills, fostering creativity, and supporting cognitive development. Having books at home helps engage parents and families in a child’s learning and literacy,” said Comitta, a former public school educator and member of the Senate Education Committee. “I’m thrilled to help secure this funding to support the good work of AHHAH in promoting reading readiness and ensuring the long-term success of children in our community.”
“Books are the keys that unlock a child’s imagination,” said Senator Kane. “With this grant to Arts Holding Hands and Hearts, we’re not just putting books in kids’ hands – we’re giving them the power to explore new worlds, dream big, and write their own stories. AHHAH and the Imagination Library are turning the page on literacy and advancing the incredible narrative in our Chester County communities. I’m proud to support AHHAH and thrilled to see these books in our kids’ hands, knowing their potential will soar!”
AHHAH serves Chester County children with a mission to build equity and justice by empowering youth, strengthening families, and mobilizing communities through arts, literacy, and mindfulness.
“Arts Holding Hands and Hearts (AHHAH) is grateful to Senator Comitta and Senator Kane for their support of the Chester County Imagination Library and for initiating the PA Statewide Expansion of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, said Jan Michener, executive director of AHHAH. “To date, over 9,100 children under age 5 in Chester County are receiving a brand new, age-appropriate book every month in the mail.”
Earlier this year, Comitta, Kane, and state Senator Maria Collett introduced legislation to expand the Imagination Library program throughout Pennsylvania.
Currently, more than 53,000 Pennsylvania children are enrolled in the Imagination Library across 44 counties. However, there are approximately 700,000 eligible children in the Commonwealth.
For more information on Arts Holding Hands and Hearts Inc., the Imagination Library, and enrollment information go to: www.ahhah.org
October 10, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 10, 2024) – Students in the Great Valley School District will have access to more fresh, locally-grown food thanks to state funding awarded through the Pennsylvania Farm Bill, state Senators Carolyn Comitta and Katie Muth announced.
The Great Valley School District was recently awarded $15,000 in state funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Farm-to-School Grant Program to purchase local, seasonal produce, yogurt, beef, and other products from Pequea Valley Farm, Frecon Farms, Happy Valley Meat, and other farms. The items will be served in school cafeterias along with information on where food was sourced.
“Offering fresh, locally grown food items in our schools not only gives students more nutritious options, but also hopefully sets them on the lifelong path to making healthier eating choices and supporting local farms and community agriculture,” said Comitta, who serves on the both the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Senate Education Committees.
“Farm-to-School Grants are such an important investment not only to support our local farms, but to ensure that all students are eating quality, locally sourced food,” Muth said. “This grant is great news for Great Valley School District and I am hopeful that more of our regional schools can benefit from this program moving forward.”
“Farm-to-School grants are an investment not just in feeding hungry minds, but feeding our future,” Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “Introducing children to fresh, local food can change their diets and open their eyes to career possibilities when they learn how food is produced and who produces it. The Shapiro Administration is making critical investments to feed the future of our communities and expand opportunities for children to succeed and Pennsylvania farms to prosper.”
The funds for Great Valley come as part of more than $462,000 in total Farm-to-School Grant Program funding awarded to 45 schools, school districts, and childhood education centers in 26 counties.
Grants of up to $15,000 are available to fund projects aimed at improving access to healthy, local food and increasing hands-on learning for children in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.
Farm-to-School projects connect local farmers to schools to supply fresh, in-season products to be served in cafeterias, expanding market opportunities for farmers. Other projects support school gardens, field trips, and other hands-on agriculture education, enriching early career awareness.
Pennsylvania remains the only state in the nation with its own Farm Bill. This year marked the fifth anniversary of the landmark investment in Pennsylvania agriculture – an industry that supports 593,000 jobs and contributes $132.5 billion to our economy annually.
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October 8, 2024
West Chester, Pa (October 8, 2024) – The Housing Partnership of Chester County (HPCC) will be able to help more seniors stay in their homes thanks to funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
Comitta recently secured $50,000 in state grant funding for HPCC’s Senior Citizen Home Maintenance Program, which provides basic home maintenance, repairs, and access modifications for low-to-moderate income seniors.
The funding will help HPCC address a significant backlog of seniors in need of immediate home repairs and modifications to address safety concerns.
“In Chester County and across Pennsylvania, our senior citizen population is growing. And as more and more of our friends, neighbors, and loved ones move into their golden years, it’s important that they have the opportunity to stay in their own homes safely,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Aging and Youth Committee said. “I want to thank the Housing Partnership of Chester County for supporting this program, as well as the agencies, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and senior centers that that assist our older residents.”
“Making safety repairs or mobility modifications can be daunting for many seniors. HPCC steps in to make the process easier by working with the construction team, managing progress, and answering questions along the way. HPCC clients can stay in their home safely without the financial stress and logistical burden of big repair or modification projects,” said Ken Hutton, HPCC Executive Director. “This grant provides critical capital to complete these projects so that our older adult clients can safely age in place.”
Administered by the HPCC on behalf of the Chester County Department of Community Development, the program serves eligible Chester County residents aged 65 and older who cannot afford necessary home repairs and modifications that are critical to them being able to stay in their homes. There is a $6,000 limit on work performed for each residence, which may include any type of home maintenance and repairs including, but not limited to, roof repair, heater installation, windows, decks, bathrooms, siding, etc.
Seniors who are interested in the program should contact Rob Malone, HPCC Director of Programs, at (610) 518-1522 x104 or rob@housingpartnershipcc.com.
Pennsylvania is home to one the highest populations of senior citizens in the nation. One in four residents are senior citizens and that is projected to grow to one in three Pennsylvanians by 2030.
According to Census data, senior citizens currently make up about 18 percent of Chester County’s population (up from approximately 13 percent in 2010).
Senator Comitta has consistently supported investments and policies aimed at helping seniors stay in their homes, including significantly expanding the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program, funding the Whole Home Repairs Program, and enacting “Aging Our Way,” the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s 10-Year Master Plan for Older Adults.
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October 4, 2024
Coatesville, Pa (October 4, 2024) – The Coatesville Youth and Women’s Alliance (CYWA) will soon have a new vehicle to transport clients, thanks to $50,000 in state grant funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The nonprofit organization, dedicated to serving pregnant women and children in the Coatesville area, plans to use the vehicle to transport clients to medical appointments and mothers to visit newborn children in neonatal intensive care.
“The CYWA is community asset and a vital safety net for so many people in need, especially our youngest and most vulnerable residents,” Comitta said. “I hope this new vehicle helps further bridge the gap to health and wellness services that impacts too many women and families in the Coatesville community.”
By purchasing its own vehicle, CYWA can cut costs related to ridesharing and transportation and reallocate those funds to support its programs.
CYWA offers four programs to help better the mental, social, and physical well-being of Coatesville area residents:
- Samara House, a residential drug and alcohol treatment program specifically for women and children.
- The Family Center, providing home visitation and case management services.
- The Gateway Shelter, for women and children experiencing homelessness and seeking affordable housing options.
- The Food Program, which provides everything from fresh produce, baked goods, meat, and non-perishable items to people in need.
For more on the Coatesville Youth and Women’s Alliance, visit their website at https://cywa.org
September 26, 2024
West Chester, Pa (September 26, 2024) – Small businesses that are looking to improve energy efficiency, reduce their waste, and cut costs can apply now for grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
The Small Business Advantage Grant Program provides reimbursement grants ranging from 50-80 percent of eligible project costs to Pennsylvania small businesses to upgrade or replace equipment or supplies, improve processes, or reduce runoff into affected waterways.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, making up 99.6 percent of businesses in Pennsylvania and this grant program can help them make improvements that benefit both our environment and their bottom lines,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “I encourage our small businesses to take advantage of this program as it can help offset the upfront costs of important upgrades that have economic benefits while leading us to a more sustainable future.”
Lighting, HVAC, boiler, and digital x-ray upgrades are the most common project types funded by the Small Business Advantage Grant, but a wide variety of projects are eligible for funding.
Maximum grant awards vary from $7,500 up to $12,000 based on the environmental impact of the project and whether the project is located within an environmental justice area.
Approximately $1 million in total grants funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For grant program guidelines and application details, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s website.
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September 24, 2024
West Chester, PA (September 24, 2024) – Seven Chester County historic organizations have been awarded more than $100,000 in total state funding through the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
The grants, which come through the PHMC’s Cultural and Historical Support Grant Program, support the general operations of eligible museums and official county historical societies. They are as follows:
- $10,000 for the American Helicopter Museum & Education Center.
- $28,400 for the Chester County History Center.
- $13,100 for the Graystone Society, Inc.
- $7,500 for the Historic Sugartown, Inc.
- $27,000 for the Historic Yellow Springs.
- $4,000 for the Oxford Area Historical Association.
- $14,000 for the Wharton Esherick Museum.
“Our region is home to a rich history – one that predates the founding of our nation. It is alive in our local landmarks, historical places, cultural artifacts, and stories. It’s part of who we are. These funds will ensure that our history is explored, interpreted, shared, and understood by future generations,” Comitta said. “We thank the PHMC for this support and appreciate all of our local historians, historical groups, supporters, and volunteers for their ongoing work to preserve the past while looking to the future.”
The grant funding comes as part of almost $4 million in total Cultural and Historical Support Grants awarded to 173 eligible museums and official county historical societies from 59 counties across the Commonwealth. According to PHMC, this is an increase over previous years by $2 million to better benefit Pennsylvania’s historical resources.
Under the program, eligible museums must have an annual operating budget exceeding $100,000 (excluding capital and in-kind services), at least one full-time professional staff person (or approved equivalent), and not be supported by other state agency funding programs.
Grants are awarded using a formula based on a percentage of the organization’s annual operating budget with a maximum grant of $62,000 and a minimum grant of $4,000
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September 23, 2024
West Chester, Pa (September 24, 2024) – To help safely and securely dispose of documents containing sensitive information, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is holding a free community shredding event at Valley Forge Middle School on Saturday October 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“If you are doing some fall cleaning around the house and come across sensitive documents that you no longer need, now’s the time to properly dispose of them,” Comitta said. “This is a great way to help prevent identity theft and fraud. I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and please arrive on time because we have limited capacity and our shredding events are often well attended.”
The event is free and open to the public. However, please note the following:
- This event is for individuals only, not businesses.
- It is first come, first served, and will end at 1 p.m. or until the trucks are full.
- There is a three (3) box limit per car for shredding.
- Only paper will be accepted for shredding. Please do not bring binders, binder clips, or books.
Some examples of unneeded documents that should be shredded include: credit card statements and applications, bank records, canceled checks, income tax forms, insurance records, medical and retirement or pension fund information, and any documents that contain personal information like Social Security, credit card, or bank account numbers.
Please note: electronic materials and e-waste will not be collected at this event.
In addition, at the event, participants are invited to bring donations of basic needs products such as menstrual hygiene products, toothbrushes and toothpaste, flushable wipes, and deodorant for the nonprofit organization Mitzvah Circle.
While donations are welcomed and encouraged, they are not required to access the free shredding services.
Valley Forge Middle School is located at 105 W. Walker Road in Wayne.
For more information contact Senator Comitta’s district office at (610) 692-2112.
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September 20, 2024
West Chester, PA (September 20, 2024) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding colleges and universities that they have only a few days left to apply for funding through the Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program.
The program, now in its third year, provides grants to colleges that set up and expand free food pantries on campus and take other steps to meet students’ nutritional needs.
Eligible postsecondary institutions with the PA Hunger-Free Campus or PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation have until September 23, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. to apply for funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s eGrants system
Additionally, Pennsylvania schools working to address food insecurity that have yet to receive PA Hunger-Free Campus designation are encouraged to apply for designation by September 30, 2024.
This week, at the Chester County Food Bank’s inaugural Rally Against Hunger, Comitta discussed the importance of addressing hunger on college campuses.
“No student should have to go hungry to access the dream of higher education. When one-third of college students report missing meals due to food insecurity, that’s a problem,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee said. “We’ve made great progress in addressing hunger in Pennsylvania public schools with universal free breakfast. Now, we’re working to address food and basic needs insecurity on campus.”
The rally, organized as part of Hunger Action Month, took place on the steps of the historic Chester County Courthouse. It also included remarks from state Rep. Chris Pielli, the Chester County Commissioners, Chester County Food Bank CEO Andrea Youndt, and others.
Comitta, a former public school teacher and West Chester University (WCU) alumna, also praised the campus community for their efforts to connect with food bank partners, like the West Chester Food Cupboard.
“We all deserve to know where our next meal is coming from. Hunger is a solvable problem and that is most apparent when we come together and work together to ensure that everyone has the food and resources they need to thrive,” she said in thanking food bank volunteers and advocates.
Last year, WCU was awarded more than $54,000 in state grant funding through the PA Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program.
This year, eligible colleges and universities may apply 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.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, nearly 23% of undergraduate students in the United States experience food insecurity. The rate of undergraduate students experiencing food insecurity is more than double the rate among all U.S. households.
To help combat this growing problem, Comitta introduced legislation creating a permanent Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program to assist colleges in establishing and maintaining food pantries and other resources to combat basic needs insecurity.
In 2022, a budget initiative based on Comitta’s legislation created the Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Campus Initiative and has since allocated $3 million to Pennsylvania colleges to address food insecurity on their campuses.
For more information on the Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Campus Initiative please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s website.
September 16, 2024
West Chester, PA (September 16, 2024) – West Chester Borough was awarded important grant funding to purchase new body cameras for its police officers, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Chris Pielli announced.
The $250,000 grant, supported by federal funding through the Pennsylvania Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program, was approved this week by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
“Body cameras are an important tool in instilling trust in law enforcement, promoting openness, accountability, and transparency, and gathering evidence from an objective viewpoint,” said Comitta, who previously served as Mayor of West Chester Borough. “Our police and emergency first responders deserve the latest technology to protect our communities and themselves. Investing in upgraded body cameras for our police is an investment in public safety.”
“I am extremely happy to have worked with Senator Comitta to bring about this much-needed grant for our police and first responders. These state-of-the art body cameras will help support West Chester Police Department’s dedicated mission of protecting and serving the citizens of our community with their continued high level of professionalism, transparency, and accountability,” Pielli said.
“I am beyond thrilled that the West Chester Police Department has been awarded this Justice Assistance Grant for $250,000. These funds will be used to offset much of the cost of obtaining new, state-of-the-art body-worn cameras and in-car video systems. The new cameras and systems will improve police operations and enhance public safety and trust. We thank Senator Comitta and Representative Pielli for their continued support,” said West Chester Police Chief Josh Lee.
Supported with state funding, the West Chester Police Department first began to use body cameras in 2020. The department requires that all field operations personnel wear body cameras. Officers are required to record situations during which they encounter the public and an arrest, detention, or use of force is likely. However, most of the cameras currently in use are out of warranty and approaching the end of their life cycle.
In the spring, West Chester Borough Council approved applying for grant funding to purchase new cameras for all 44 department officers. The borough is also budgeting funds to support the investment, which is expected to cost between $500,000 and $600,000 according to reports.
The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is currently rolling out body cameras to troopers across the Commonwealth. So far, PSP troops covering 19 counties have successfully implemented body-worn cameras. PSP expects to have fully implemented body-worn cameras and updated mobile video recorders for all of its troops by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
In addition, full-time Pennsylvania Wildlife Conservation Officers (now known as State Game Wardens) already wear body cameras and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is currently in the process of procuring and rolling-out cameras for its Waterways Conservation Officers
There are also proposals before the legislature to authorize body cameras for parole agents and others.
September 10, 2024
State Senator Carolyn Comitta joined U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, state Rep. Jennifer O’Mara, and other members of the PA House Democratic Southeast Delegation celebrated the recent enactment of state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler’s Solar for Schools program this week.
Solar for Schools is a new state grant program designed to help school districts across Pennsylvania install solar panels on school grounds or roofs. The grants will cover up to 50% of the cost of solar projects for schools and can be paired with federal funding available through the Inflation Reduction Act.
“My colleagues and I in Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act. This provides incentives for schools, nonprofits, and houses of worship to deploy wind, solar, and other renewable energy technologies to generate clean electricity,” Scanlon said. “I’m so excited that decades after I was on the school board, our state legislature, led by Representative Fiedler, stepped up and took this really important step so our school districts can do renovations, implement solar energy and other clean energy options, and reap the savings of those options. The IRA is an essential step, but it can’t be the last step.”
“Solar for Schools is not just an opportunity to bring clean energy and good jobs to our school communities. It’s an innovative way to pair state and federal funds to benefit Pennsylvania’s students,” Fiedler said. “I’m grateful to my colleagues who helped pass the bill through the legislature, and to those at the federal level who worked hard to pass the IRA and secure funds for these game-changing projects.”
Energy is the second-highest cost for schools, behind staffing. By generating their own solar energy, districts can save millions of dollars over the life of a project, allowing them to free funds that could be used on educational resources, staff, and student programming.
“Our public schools, community colleges, and career and technical schools are powering the future of Pennsylvania. It just makes sense that they are powered in a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective way. I want to thank the governor and all of our partners in the state legislature, U.S. Congress, environmental community, and labor for making this a reality. When students and families see that their schools are powered by solar, it shows that we are putting their future and the future of our planet first,” said state Sen. Carolyn Comitta, who introduced companion legislation in the Pennsylvania Senate.
“Concerns about the environment are top-of-mind for the young adults in our community. Solar for Schools demonstrates we are taking their concerns seriously and doing what we can to make positive change. It will also mean savings for taxpayers as solar can substantially lower school energy costs…a win for our communities on so many levels,” said state Rep. Lisa Borowski.
“This program creates family-sustaining union jobs, helps our commonwealth meet its climate goals, and has the potential to help school districts save hundreds of thousands of dollars so they can invest in what matters most – our students. Embracing the Solar for Schools program is more than just a step toward reducing our environmental impact—it’s a commitment to building a sustainable future that benefits everyone,” said O’Mara.
The program united a broad coalition of environmental and labor leaders, who are excited about its potential to create jobs, prepare the next generation of workers for careers in solar installation, and reduce environmental impact.
“Solar for Schools presents an important opportunity to demonstrate to Pennsylvanians across our commonwealth that the clean energy revolution is here and will help their communities,” said Jess Cadorette, director of civic engagement for Conservation Voters of Pennsylvania and PennFuture. “This innovative program will leverage federal investments under the Biden-Harris climate agenda to increase access to clean energy while creating union jobs and lowering energy costs across Delaware County and all of Pennsylvania.
“IBEW 654 supports the Solar for Schools legislation because it supports the safe, productive and sustainable growth of renewable energy systems in Pennsylvania. We support creating good paying, family sustaining jobs in our communities,” said Bill Adams, president and assistant business manager for IBEW Local 654.
The media event was part of an ongoing Solar for Schools tour that aims to highlight energy and financial needs at schools, spread the word about the grant program, and ensure school districts are prepared to apply.
