McClinton, Cephas announce more than $138,000 to invest in jobs, businesses, and affordable housing

PA House Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton and state Rep. Morgan Cephas announced today $138,581 is going to support efforts by two nonprofits to help jobseekers, local businesses, and residents in West Philadelphia amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

ACHIEVEability was awarded $98,750 in tax credits through the state’s Neighborhood Assistance Program, which will be dispersed as follows:

  • $80,000 to strengthen the 60th Street Commercial Corridor by providing small businesses with exterior lighting and security cameras to bolster safety and additional financial and technical resources to improve storefronts. The project also includes street cleanings and beautification, while working to connect residents with jobs, homes, financial assistance, and other supportive services. 

  • $18,750 for Tech Up, a 5-month pilot that aims to disrupt the technology sector and cycle of dead-end jobs for marginalized communities by training and placing Black jobseekers in living-wage, high growth, sustainable careers.

“With COVID-19 exacerbating so many challenges our communities have been facing for far too long, our neighbors and local businesses need our support now more than ever,” said McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware. “This funding is critical in connecting people in West Philly with family sustaining jobs, while, at the same time, making investments to assist employers who are already here and attract new ones, as we continue working together to put this pandemic behind us.”

"I'm grateful to see these vital funds returning to our community so they can be put to use helping those who need it most," said Cephas, D-Phila. "As we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and address the gun violence plaguing our communities, there is much work that needs to be done. But I know we have amazing people in our community, including those at ACHIEVEability, who want to do the necessary work and this funding will go a long way.”

“The fact is our West Philly communities should be celebrated not ignored. We’ve made it our mission to do whatever it takes to give our neighborhoods and those who live here the best chance to succeed,” said Jamila Harris-Morrison, executive director of ACHIEVEability. “With COVID-19 leaving so many struggling, we will continue fighting to secure funding like this to make life safer and more affordable for our neighbors, while helping our small businesses not only recover but thrive past this health crisis.”

Also approved was $39,831 in NAP financing for the following projects for the Community of Compassion CDC:

  • $22,500 to support the construction of an affordable housing development for seniors.
  • $17,331 to create a new, year-round healthy food distribution hub to keep area families fed.

“No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying the bills, but that is the sad reality too many are facing,” said Terrilynn Donnell, principal officer of Community of Compassion CDC. “This financing will aid in our ongoing effort to provide meals and nutritious food options to our neighbors who need it most.”

McClinton added: “I am thankful to work with dedicated colleagues like Representative Cephas and the great people at the Community of Compassion CDC and ACHIEVEability. Without them, these critical opportunities would not be possible.” 

NAP can be used for projects in categories including affordable housing, community services, crime prevention, education, job training, charitable food, blight, special population issues, veteran’s initiatives, and long-term community revitalization.

More information about the tax credits can be found here.