HARRISBURG, PA — More than $1.7 million in state funding will support sexual assault prevention programs and survivor resources at 43 colleges and universities across Pennsylvania.
What This Means for You
- Colleges are expanding resources and support for survivors of sexual violence
- Students will see more education on consent and prevention efforts
- Local schools, including in Chester County, are receiving targeted funding
The Shapiro Administration announced the third round of It’s On Us PA grants, aimed at improving campus safety through education, awareness, and survivor support services.
The program funds initiatives designed to prevent sexual violence, educate students about consent, and ensure victims have access to resources.
What the Program Does
The It’s On Us PA campaign is part of a broader national effort launched to address sexual assault on college campuses.
The initiative focuses on teaching students how to recognize unsafe situations, understand that sexual assault includes any non-consensual sexual activity, and encourage intervention when someone may be at risk.
State officials said the funding also supports services for survivors, including counseling access, reporting resources, and immediate assistance.
“Healthy relationships and violence prevention require safe communities where people of all backgrounds and communities know that resources and help are available,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe.
How Schools Will Use the Funding
Colleges across the state will use the grants for a range of programs tailored to their campuses.
La Salle University in Philadelphia will use its $40,000 grant to create a Survivor’s Closet, providing immediate access to essential items and support services for survivors, along with expanded awareness efforts.
Moravian University in Northampton County plans to use its $40,000 grant to educate students about consent and improve awareness of reporting options, with a focus on reaching high-risk groups.
The University of Pittsburgh will use its $43,725 grant to expand its “Help Is Available” campaign, increase on-campus visibility of resources, and offer self-defense classes and access to victim advocacy services.
Local Impact in Chester County
Two institutions in Chester County received funding as part of the program:
- West Chester University: $55,969
- Immaculata University: $40,000
State officials said these funds will help expand prevention education and strengthen support systems for students on local campuses.
Broader Higher Education Investments
The announcement is part of a wider effort by the state to invest in higher education and student support services.
Earlier this month, the Pennsylvania Department of Education announced $1 million in Hunger-Free Campus grants to address food insecurity among college students.
Officials also highlighted recent structural changes, including the creation of the State Board of Higher Education and a new statewide strategic plan aimed at improving access, affordability, and workforce alignment.
The plan outlines goals such as increasing postsecondary attainment, strengthening accountability, and ensuring efficient use of state funding across institutions.
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