HARRISBURG — Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) announced today that she has successfully secured several grants to support a wide range of community projects throughout the 24th Senate District. These investments, which total nearly $500,000, were awarded through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.
“I’m proud to help deliver meaningful state investments for community projects that make a real difference in people’s lives,” Pennycuick said. “These grants will empower local initiatives that strengthen our neighborhoods, enhance vital public resources, and improve the overall quality of life for residents throughout the district.”
The following organizations received a grant from DCED:
Trappe Fire Company received $27,000 for equipment purchases and facility security upgrades.
“The members of Trappe Fire Company No. 1 would like to thank Senator Pennycuick for securing a grant to help us replace badly aging equipment. This equipment will allow us to better serve the community with newer technology to provide faster and more reliable service,” said Chief Richard Schroeter. “The Senator has secured several grants for our department and we believe this is due to her strong belief in supporting volunteer fire companies and their communities by helping relieve the financial strains that the costs of upgrading or buying new puts on organizations like ours from smaller communities. We are very appreciative of all of Senator Pennycuick’s support over the years and we look forward to working with her in the future.”
Upper Perkiomen Valley Ambulance Association received $100,000 to purchase a new vehicle and equipment.
“Thank you to Senator Pennycuick and office staff with helping us acquire this grant. The DCED grant will make it possible for us to place in service an off road capable UTV to assist with locating, treating and transporting patient’s that may be lost or injured on any part of the roughly 10 miles of County trails in which we cover,” said Keith Long, UPVA Chief. “This will be the only one of its kind in Western Montgomery County dedicated for patient transport. Receiving such funds was the only way to purchase this otherwise capital expenditure, in a more timely fashion. This partnered with the Command vehicle will help serve the residents in the Upper Perkiomen Valley and surrounding areas when help is needed most.”
Historic Trappe received $100,000 to assist with restoration of the Speaker’s House (home of first U.S. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Frederick Muhlenberg).
“Historic Trappe is deeply appreciative of this funding to help support the next phase of restoration work at the Speaker’s House and we are most grateful to Senator Pennycuick for her support in obtaining this grant on our behalf,” said Lisa Minardi, Executive Director. “We are excited to share the Speaker’s House, one of Montgomery County’s most historic landmarks, with everyone, especially now during America’s 250th anniversary year.”
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5954 received $75,000 to assist with renovations for its Veterans’ Outreach Center located at 407 Main Street, Red Hill.
“We at VFW Post 5954 would like to thank Senator Pennycuick for her assistance in obtaining a $75,000 grant to help the veterans of our area through our Veterans Outreach Services Center,” said Tomas Sally, spokesperson. “Senator Pennycuick has always been there when a veteran was in need.”
Harleysville Baseball received $75,000 for upgrades to Harleysville Community Center’s sports complex and baseball fields.
“Harleysville Baseball is incredibly grateful for Senator Pennycuick’s support,” said Wayne Westring, Director at Harleysville Baseball. “Her commitment to our town strengthens our community and allows us to continue making a meaningful difference for our local families.”
Sebastian Riding Associates received $35,000 to purchase a new utility tractor.
“We are incredibly grateful for this investment in Sebastian Riding Associates. Caring for our 27-acre facility located within Evansburg State Park is a tremendous responsibility, and a reliable tractor is essential to maintaining our property, supporting the care of our horses, and providing a safe and welcoming environment for the children and adults with disabilities we serve,” said Kendra Bonner, Executive Director. “This funding strengthens the foundation of our programs and helps ensure that SRA can continue changing lives through the power of horses for years to come.”
The Salvation Army of Boyertown received $25,000 to replace aging kitchen appliances.
“We’re grateful to Senator Pennycuick for helping secure this grant for the Boyertown Corps kitchen,” said Capt. Betty Ellen Barrett, Corps Officer at The Salvation Army Boyertown Corps. “In fiscal year 2025, we served 29,905 meals through our twice-weekly soup kitchen and 32,834 meals through our after-school program. This funding will help us update the kitchen with supplies and equipment so we can continue serving our neighbors. We also hope to offer life skills classes that teach children and families how to prepare meals at home.”
Washington Township received $35,000 to restore its aging World War II Memorial.
“I am happy to see this important project take place so our township can continue to honor our veterans and the sacrifices they have made for United States of America and its citizens.” said Romnie Long, Board of Supervisors Chair.
The PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) works to ensure the Commonwealth remains competitive and economically resilient. DCED advances sustainable development, supports strategic business and community initiatives, and provides technical assistance and financial resources to foster growth across Pennsylvania.
CONTACT: Sean Drakeley – (215) 541-2388