Schuylkill Legislators Announce Affordable Housing Funding

HARRISBURG - Schuylkill Community Action has been awarded more than $225,000 to provide affordable housing through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund (PHARE), said Rep. Tim Twardzik (R-123), Rep. Dane Watro (R-116) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29).

The Raise the Roof - Northern Schuylkill County initiative received $150,000 to preserve existing, affordable housing through roof replacements and home safety improvements for income eligible households in northern Schuylkill County communities.

The Bridge House - Transitional Housing Program received $75,000 to provide up to 12 months of safe, affordable housing and support for those experiencing homelessness, including victims of domestic violence, low-income households and people in recovery. Those leasing the units will receive services to help them work towards self-sufficiency.

"PHARE funding continues to play an important role in addressing housing needs in Schuylkill County," said Twardzik. "These investments will help homeowners complete critical roof and safety repairs through the Raise the Roof program and provide transitional housing and supportive services through Bridge House for individuals and families working toward greater stability and self-sufficiency."

"Every family deserves a safe, secure roof over their head, and this funding will make a real difference for homeowners across northern Schuylkill County," said Watro. "By helping repair failing roofs and adding important safety equipment like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, the Raise the Roof initiative will protect families, preserve homes and strengthen our communities for years to come."

"I'm thankful this highly competitive funding will support our neighbors in need in Schuylkill County," said Argall. "These organizations all do excellent work to support at-risk individuals, and they deserve our support as they pursue their missions."

The awarded funding originated from Marcellus Shale impact fees and realty transfer taxes and was allocated through PHARE, which is administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

TWARDZIK CONTACT: Will Jones
WATRO CONTACT: Chris Comisac
ARGALL CONTACT: Seth Hubler