BERKS COUNTY, PA — The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency this week approved a significant grant of $284,845. The funding is set to boost seven security and law enforcement support projects in the 11th Senatorial District, which encompasses Berks County.
State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) expressed her satisfaction with the local community groups who have successfully secured state-level funding for key projects. “I have consistently advocated for the Nonprofit Security Grant program and fought for its continued funding in Harrisburg,” said Schwank. She also highlighted the much-needed support provided to the Reading Police Department for recruitment purposes.
There’s no doubt that the grant will contribute significantly towards making Berks County a safer place to live, work, and play, according to Schwank. The projects receiving grants range from safety upgrades at community institutions to recruitment incentives for new police officers.
The Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program will benefit four recipients. Exeter Community Library, Jewish Federation of Reading, Kesher Zion Synagogue, and Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom will receive a total of $76,845 for safety and security upgrades.
In addition, the City of Reading will receive a grant of $140,000 from the Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program. This grant will provide recruitment incentive bonuses for 28 individuals hired as police officer trainees. Kutztown University is set to receive $21,000 to cover the cost of Act 120 training for three officers.
Lastly, the County of Berks will receive $47,000 from the State Children’s Advocacy Center Funds. This grant will cover operational expenses for the Children’s Alliance Center of Berks County.
These investments aim to enhance security, support law enforcement, and ensure the well-being of the county’s residents.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and Microsoft Start.