Carlisle, PA – July 13, 2020: Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland & Perry Counties (DVSCP) was recently awarded $20,000 through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program. The program encourages community participation among nonprofits and businesses, while providing resources to assist with projects that benefit low-income populations.

DVSCP partnered with Mid Penn Bank to apply for the DCED’s Special Priorities Program (SPP) branch of the Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program. The agency qualified for the SPP by documenting that it serves an at-risk and vulnerable population through its 30-day Emergency Shelter and associated services. The case was also made that the Shelter is in need of vital repairs to remain in safe working order for those seeking refuge from dangerous, potentially fatal, domestic violence situations.

Mid Penn pledged to donate $10,000 towards the Emergency Shelter renovation project. The work has begun and funds will be used to repair or replace 45 shelter windows, as well as repair and replace portions of the exterior, which has begun to rot. The agency’s handicap accessible ramp will also be mended and the basement flooring replaced during this project.

DVSCP selected Cumberland Building and Design, Inc., who has now merged with Mowery Construction, a local general contractor, to perform the renovation with an estimated budget of more than $100,000. Fundraising efforts throughout 2019 were successful – the agency reached its ultimate goal.

This endeavor wasn’t the bank’s first supportive gesture towards the agency.  It has been a repeat supporter of DVSCP for several years through various agency fundraisers, including the agency’s biggest fundraiser – the Annual Sunflower Gala held in April.  Not only is Mid Penn a sponsor and auction donor, but several bank employees volunteer for the Gala Planning Committee.

“To say we are grateful for our relationship with Mid Penn Bank would be a huge understatement,” commented the agency’s Executive Director Barbara Kohutiak. “Their overall generosity is admirable, but on this particular project it helped us reach our goal and allowed these repairs to be completed in a timely manner.”

“As a board member with DVSCP and as an employee at Mid Penn Bank, I am very fortunate to be associated with two such wonderful organizations. Mid Penn Bank is committed to improving its community through partnerships with local nonprofits and I am proud that they have chosen to support the vital services that DVSCP provides for the community. This donation will help countless lives,” stated Jodi Bezanilla, Senior Vice President and Cash Management Officer.

Pictured below (L-R) is DVSCP’s Director of Development Tasha Frey and Board President Jan Ekerovich accepting the $10,000 check from Mid Penn Bank’s Senior Vice President and Cash Management Officer Jodi Bezanilla.