SOUDERTON, PA — Over 100 recipients of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant program in Montgomery County convened last week to celebrate the program’s thriving success. The gathering was graced by the presence of Montgomery County Commissioners Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. and Jamila H. Winder, who were joined by stakeholders from across the county to share insights on transformative initiatives that are shaping the future of the community.
Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr., Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, said, “From bolstering public health infrastructure to supporting small businesses, from enhancing our educational systems to strengthening community services, the ARPA funds have touched every corner of our county. These funds have been a catalyst for transformative change across Montgomery County, enabling us to undertake initiatives that have and will significantly enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
In August 2022, Montgomery County announced its Recovery Plan, which allocated $161.4 million in ARPA funding across 112 businesses, nonprofits, and organizations in the county. Since then, 79% of the projects representing $87 million in funding have been initiated, with 19% being complete or almost complete.
Jamila H. Winder, Vice Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, expressed, “Each organization here today represents progress and innovation. These initiatives have not only met immediate needs but have laid down the foundation for a brighter more inclusive future for our County. The stories of change, the lives touched, the future lives that will be impacted…and the communities uplifted stand as a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
Tom Bonner, deputy chief operating officer of Montgomery County, representing the Montgomery County Recovery Office, said, “We distributed $7 million in small grants targeting community fire stations and focusing on minority- and women-owned small businesses. Some of our most transformative projects are still in progress, including the Housing Opportunities Fund for affordable housing construction and our Food Policy Council for strengthening our local food system.”
Nelly Jimenez-Arevalo, CEO and executive director of ACLAMO and ARPA grant recipient, added, “Beyond bricks and mortar physical renovation, the funds have transformed this space into a safe, welcoming haven for the community, offering vital services, educational resources, and a place to connect and learn.”
The Recognition Luncheon served as a platform for sharing success stories, insights, and the positive impact of ARPA initiatives on Montgomery County. More details about the projects funded by the Montgomery County Recovery Office are available on the Recovery Office interactive dashboard.
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