More than $591,000 has been allocated to Cambria County projects through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), according to an announcement from Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35). The funding is intended to help individuals and improve the community through a range of initiatives.
One approved project involves a partnership between The Food Bank and Brian Campbell Farms, which will distribute over 515,000 pounds of fresh produce each year in Armstrong and Cambria counties. This initiative aims to provide monthly food boxes containing produce and frozen protein to about 2,145 households.
JARI will use its portion of the funds to address local poverty by offering tuition assistance for training three truck drivers and two phlebotomists. These efforts are designed to fill workforce gaps in high-demand fields while providing wages that can support families.
The Johnstown Library plans to renovate its facility with a focus on improving ADA accessibility. The upgrades include expanding bathrooms, installing new fixtures, staff training, and targeted outreach so that people with disabilities can better access library services.
Another recipient, The Learning Lamp, will support childcare providers by offering free business coaching, establishing a school-to-work pipeline with tuition assistance, and providing free CPR training. These actions are meant to enhance childcare quality and aid working families throughout the region.
Sen. Langerholc commented on the importance of such partnerships: “When we leverage private-sector leadership and local investment, we strengthen communities in meaningful ways,” said Langerholc. “The Neighborhood Assistance Program encourages businesses to partner with nonprofits and invest directly in local neighborhoods, helping families in need while supporting community-driven solutions.”
A number of local organizations contributed support for these projects including banks such as 1st Summit Bank; AmeriServ Financial Bank; First Commonwealth Bank; First National Bank; Mid Penn Bank; Northwest Bank; S&T Bank; Somerset Trust Company; TriState Capital Bank; UPMC Health Plan as well as companies like Best Window & Door Company; Brian Campbell Farms; Hastings Machine Company; Jtown Fresh and Friendly Foods; Kotzan CPA & Associates, P.C.; Laurel Auto Group; Quaker Sales Corporation; Robindale Energy Services, Inc.; Walnut Medical Services; Wessel & Company Accountants & Advisors.
The NAP provides tax credits for businesses that contribute financially to nonprofit organizations focused on revitalizing communities. Funding comes from the annual state budget process supported by Sen. Langerholc.
