Two Berks County organizations will receive a combined $60,000 in state grants for community projects, according to state Sen. Tracy Pennycuick.
The funding is part of nearly $500,000 in grants announced for organizations throughout the 24th Senate District through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
The Salvation Army of Boyertown received $25,000 to replace aging kitchen appliances.
“We’re grateful to Senator Pennycuick for helping secure this grant for the Boyertown Corps kitchen,” said Capt. Betty Ellen Barrett, Corps Officer at The Salvation Army Boyertown Corps. “In fiscal year 2025, we served 29,905 meals through our twice-weekly soup kitchen and 32,834 meals through our after-school program. This funding will help us update the kitchen with supplies and equipment so we can continue serving our neighbors. We also hope to offer life skills classes that teach children and families how to prepare meals at home.”
Washington Township received $35,000 to restore its aging World War II Memorial.
“I am happy to see this important project take place so our township can continue to honor our veterans and the sacrifices they have made for United States of America and its citizens,” said Romnie Long, chair of the Board of Supervisors.
Pennycuick said the grants are intended to support community projects throughout the district.
“I’m proud to help deliver meaningful state investments for community projects that make a real difference in people’s lives,” Pennycuick said. “These grants will empower local initiatives that strengthen our neighborhoods, enhance vital public resources, and improve the overall quality of life for residents throughout the district.”
Other organizations receiving funding through the announcement included Trappe Fire Company, Upper Perkiomen Valley Ambulance Association, Historic Trappe, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5954, Harleysville Baseball and Sebastian Riding Associates.
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development provides financial resources and technical assistance for business, community and economic development initiatives across the state.