Originally posted by MyChesCo.

WASHINGTON, D.C. —  Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) has successfully secured the funding of 14 Community Project Funding priorities, amassing a whopping $11,726,065 through the House Appropriations Committee. This remarkable initiative was recently signed into law by President Biden.

The crux of Community Project Funding lies in allowing Members of Congress to expediently distribute available federal funds to local projects that have demonstrated their worthiness. Houlahan has ensured transparency and accountability through a unique method of project selection, utilizing a nonpartisan board of community leaders to review applications and make recommendations.

“I am elated that we secured over $11.7 million to fund 14 community-focused projects in our district…”, Houlahan declared. These projects, spread across Reading to Berwyn, are set to bring about significant improvements in infrastructure, workforce development, and resources for first responders, among other benefits.

Funding includes substantial injections into projects like Albright College’s Innovation Corridor Life Science-Based Incubator, securing $3,000,000 for the renovation of the Camp Building as part of phase 1. Another significant beneficiary is Ann’s Heart, with $977,573 set aside for the purchase of its Nonprofit Hub Campus.

“The Volunteers, Board of Directors, and Staff of Ann’s Heart extend their deepest gratitude to Representative Houlahan and Senator Casey for their sponsorship and unwavering support”, expressed Kristen McGee, Executive Director of Ann’s Heart.

Other key fund recipients include the Berwyn Fire Company, receiving $500,000 to support the construction of a new fire/EMS station; Reading Area Community College, awarded $1,035,000 for Capital Improvements and Repairs – Workforce Development; and the City of Coatesville, receiving $959,752 for implementing phase 2 of the Ash Park Master Plan.

Houlahan’s funding initiatives also reached out to more grassroots levels, with the FarmerJawn and Friends Foundation Fund granted $657,000 for the revitalization of the FarmerJawn Barn.

Brandon Ritter, COO of FarmerJawn, expressed gratitude, stating, “This generous funding will enable us to renovate our aging barn and incorporate hydroponic facilities, allowing us to expand our mission of teaching essential agricultural skills and entrepreneurship qualities to the Chester County community.”

Projects like the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department’s Body Worn Camera and Taser Project, and The Garage Community and Youth Center’s Rain Garden and Green Roof Chester County PA, are just a few more examples of where Houlahan has prioritized funding.

Houlahan emphasizes the transformative power of Community Project Funding Grants, stating, “This process is one of the best examples I can think of where the federal government is able to directly impact our home districts…”

Houlahan continues to defy convention, demonstrating that when we work together, our communities can indeed thrive. Her office has ensured all project details and purposes, as well as letters certifying her lack of personal financial interest in the initiatives, are publicly accessible for full transparency.

In a world of often confusing political maneuvers, Representative Houlahan stands out with her commitment to transparency and direct community impact in Berks and Chester Counties.