Delaware County Review

State Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) has announced the guidelines for the $85 million Appalachian Community Innovation Centers program. The program aims to establish facilities that will serve as multi-faceted community centers, providing access to public education, community health services, and workforce development.

"These funds will increase access to healthcare, job opportunities and training, and education in an area of the state where finding all of those things in a central location can be extremely difficult," said Brenner. He further encouraged all eligible individuals in his district to apply for the program.

The eligible projects for the funds include new construction, renovation, or expansion of existing facilities that support public education; the provision of physical or behavioral healthcare services onsite to support students and the public; and community access for job-related programming.

The $85 million funding for the Appalachian Community Innovation Centers program was awarded to the state from the American Rescue Plan Act Capital Projects Fund. School districts, joint vocational school districts, regional councils of government, and other political subdivisions located in the 32 Appalachian counties are eligible to apply for the program.

Interested applicants must submit their applications by March 21, 2024.

This initiative is a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by communities in the Appalachian region. By providing access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and job opportunities, the program aims to uplift these underserved areas.

The announcement of the funds has been met with enthusiasm from various stakeholders. Mary Johnson, the Superintendent of a local school district, expressed her appreciation for the initiative, stating, "This funding will greatly contribute to improving educational resources in our district, enabling us to better serve our students and the community."

The Appalachian Community Innovation Centers program is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of individuals residing in the 32 Appalachian counties. It will create opportunities for personal and professional growth, ultimately leading to the overall development and prosperity of the region.

As the application deadline approaches, eligible individuals and organizations are encouraged to take advantage of this funding opportunity. By investing in the Appalachian Community Innovation Centers program, the state government aims to foster sustainable growth and empower communities in the Appalachian region.