NORRISTOWN — ACLAMO has received a 1 million dollar grant to continue improving and making the ongoing community center project more accessible. The ongoing community center project has received a 1 million dollar grant., officials said Tuesday.
The Norristown-based nonprofit received the seven-figure grant from U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-5th Dist. The federal money came as part of a community project funding initiative, according to an ACLAMO spokesperson.
Established in 1978, the Norristown-based social services agency focuses on providing educational and social services as well as health and wellness resources to area residents across Montgomery County.
Work has continued for the better part of a year on transforming the 130-year-old former Calvary Baptist Church at 801 W. Marshall St. into a community center for ACLAMO. ACLAMO will maintain its office at nearby 512 Marshall St, as well as its satellite facilities in Lansdale and Pottstown.
The new facility will offer a variety of services such as administrative offices, community spaces, an early learning center, a food pantry, as well as workforce development and social services centers. The site is expected to finish construction in late 2024, according to a spokesperson.
Funds designated by Scanlon will assist the Montgomery County nonprofit with completing several accessibility focused projects, including installing an elevator, wheelchair ramps and restrooms that comply with Americans with Disabilities Act standards, according to ACLAMO. Other initiatives will include improvements to infrastructure and the addition of amenities for future community events, educational programs and social services needs.
“We are incredibly grateful to Rep. Scanlon for her unwavering support and advocacy on behalf of ACLAMO and the communities we serve,” said ACLAMO CEO and Executive Director Nelly Jiménez in a statement. “This grant will enable us to enhance the accessibility of our community center, making it more inclusive and accommodating for individuals of all abilities.
“Additionally, the renovation efforts will revitalize our facility, allowing us to better fulfill our mission of empowering Latino individuals and families through education, health, and social services.”
