‘LIFELINE TO PEOPLE’

Housing, food security get huge boost in Chester County

Chester County has a robust economy, and it consistently ranks as one of the wealthiest counties not only in Pennsylvania, but in the nation.

Having such a vibrant local economy has obvious benefits, including an unemployment rate that is lower than the statewide average. But economic success comes with a higher cost of living, and that can lead to challenges in securing food and housing for individuals

and families that do not benefit from higher earnings.

It also can make it difficult for employers, particularly small businesses, to find employees who can afford to live locally, limiting their potential for growth.

Chester County government received more than $100 million in federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act, which was designed to mitigate the impacts of the COVID pandemic. The county has been strategically investing these funds in programs designed to help local residents and businesses, including those that focus on affordable housing and food security.

“The first component of the

American Rescue Plan Act was to provide a necessary lifeline to people,” said U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-6th, of Easttown, who voted for the legislation. “Without securing basic needs — housing and food — the other elements of this program would not function.

“ARPA addressed these basic needs for many in our vibrant community,” she added. “Chester County is a great place to live, but it can be quite expensive — particularly for young adults starting out in life, retiring seniors on a fixed income, and veterans who have served our country. ARPAfunded housing expansions will give residents in our community the opportunity to put down

roots (here) and continue to live in Chester County, one of the few counties in Pennsylvania that is growing in population.”

Commenting on the priorities for ARPA funding, county commissioners Chairwoman Marian Moskowitz said: “We looked at a wide range of needs across the county to determine how best to allocate our ARPA funds. One area where we consistently received feedback that help was needed was in the realm of affordable housing, so part of our investment strategy with these funds was to ensure that more homes were attainable to those who want to live here.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pictured (left to right) Glenda Brion, CEO and Executive Director of Community Warehouse Project of Chester County meets with County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz and Michelle Kichline at the organization’s headquarters in West Chester. Community Warehouse Project is one of a number of recipients of American Rescue Plan Act funds from the County to address housing and food insecurity.