Lowey Announces $318,600 AmeriCorps Grant for Family Services of Westchester, Inc.

Press Release

Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) today announced Family Services of Westchester, Inc. will receive a $318,600 AmeriCorps Grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS).

"Since 1954, Family Services of Westchester has provided critical services to meet the needs of children, teens, adults, and the elderly throughout the county," said Congresswoman Lowey. "The AmeriCorps grant will enable FSW to broaden its impact on the community through 33 volunteer positions. I am proud that this funding will strengthen education initiatives in our community."

"At a time when local governments can no longer afford to provide needed services to local communities, AmeriCorps members are increasingly filling the gap and meeting the ever-growing needs of Americans in these difficult economic times," said Irina Miagkova, AmeriCorps Program Director at FSW. "We are grateful to Congresswoman Lowey for her continued support of the AmeriCorps program. The AmeriCorps members have contributed to the work of FSW for years, and we are proud to have the opportunity to continue the program."

AmeriCorps grants support organizations that sponsor service programs to meet pressing needs in local communities. Competitive grants have been awarded across the nation to support programs focusing on education, veterans and military families, economic opportunity, health, environmental stewardship, and disaster service. The grants cover some of the cost of operating the program, in addition to a small stipend for the AmeriCorps members, which is matched by the recipient organization.

Family Services of Westchester, Inc. will be using the grant to continue to serve the four target communities of Port Chester, New Rochelle, Yonkers, and White Plains. AmeriCorps members will work at elementary schools and public libraries to enhance academic performance by providing one-on-one academic support, mentoring services, literacy skill building activities and homework assistance to targeted high schools, middle school, elementary and pre-school students.

"Every child deserves the chance to succeed, which is why investing in our students is one of my top priorities," said Lowey. "I congratulate Family Services of Westchester on this achievement and look forward to their many future accomplishments."

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