Governor Shapiro Doubles NAP Funding, Supports Hazleton YMCA Project

Revitalized Hazleton YMCA: A Community Milestone Funded by Shapiro’s Budget

The transformation of the Hazleton YMCA Early Education Center was made possible by Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2024-25 bipartisan budget, which increased the Neighborhood Assistance Program's funding to $72 million.

This facility is among 218 second-round recipients of NAP awards across Pennsylvania, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to fostering robust community growth and economic opportunities.

Hazleton, PA – The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced a significant milestone for the Shapiro Administration with an investment exceeding $1 million in the Greater Hazleton YMCA Early Education Center. This initiative, celebrated at a ribbon-cutting in Luzerne County, showcases the revitalization of a former YMCA building to now host affordable early childhood education and childcare services for low-income families.

The funding, sourced from the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), leverages tax credits to encourage private sector contributions to nonprofit community enhancement projects statewide. Governor Shapiro's bipartisan 2024-25 budget effectively doubled the NAP funding, allowing for two funding rounds benefiting 218 nonprofit bodies across Pennsylvania. The initial round was announced in September 2024.

Governor Shapiro has prioritized community investment since assuming office, positioning Pennsylvania as a hub for innovation and economic advancement. Secretary Siger remarked, “The revitalized Hazleton YMCA project is what the Neighborhood Assistance Program is all about – strengthening our communities, bringing new energy to downtowns, and improving the quality of life for all Pennsylvanians.”

In the northeast region alone, 33 community projects will benefit from NAP support. The former Hazleton YMCA, closed since 2019, has been transformed into an early childhood education center offering additional programs that connect parents with vital social services.

Jim Thomas, CEO of Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA, expressed gratitude to Governor Shapiro, DCED, and local legislators for their support. He also acknowledged corporate allies like Rob Mericle, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in realizing the project.

The NAP is structured around five core components: the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), Special Program Priorities (SPP), the Neighborhood Partnership Program (NPP), Charitable Food Program (CFP), and the Enterprise Zone Program (EZP). More details can be found in the NAP impact brochure.

Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Initiatives

• Launching the first statewide economic development strategy in nearly two decades focusing on agriculture, energy, life sciences, manufacturing, and technology.
• Securing $500 million for the PA SITES program to develop commercial and industrial sites, building on a successful pilot.
• Creating the Main Street Matters program, supported by a $20 million investment.
• Boosting opportunities for minority-owned businesses with a $20 million investment for the Historically Disadvantaged Business Program.

Governor Shapiro, now two years into office, continues to champion economic development and innovation. For more insights into his administration's achievements, visit the Governor Shapiro’s Accomplishments website.

Additional information about the Neighborhood Assistance Program and the Department of Community and Economic Development can be accessed on their official website. Stay updated via Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.