Harkins, Merski: $1.7M awarded to increase availability of safe, affordable housing
Rep. Robert Merski June 11, 2025 | 4:41 PM
ERIE, June 11 – Grant awards totaling $1.7 million have been awarded to entities with a focus on ensuring residents in Erie County have access to safe, affordable housing, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.
These grants were awarded through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund. PHARE was established by Act 105 of 2010 to allocate certain state or federal funds, as well as funds from other outside sources, that are used to assist with the creation, rehabilitation and support of affordable housing throughout the commonwealth.
The local awards and recipients are as follows:
- $200,000 - GMA Development Group LLC.
- $750,000 - City of Erie.
- $50,0000 - Community of Caring.
- $100,000 – Erie GECAC.
- $300,000 – BUILD Community Development Corp.
- $100,000 - Erie County Department of Human Services.
- $100,000 - St. Martin Center Inc.
- $100,000- Erie’s Black Wall Street
“Affordable, safe housing isn’t simply a fundamental need — it lays the groundwork for thriving families and resilient communities,” Harkins said. "By providing these grants, we're building environments where children can excel in school, where improved living conditions and lower stress lead to better health, and where families can direct their resources more wisely to break the cycle of poverty."
Merski said: "By making sure everyone can secure safe and affordable housing, we're really investing in our nation's future. A home isn't merely a shelter — it lays the groundwork for individuals to gain an education, build careers, and play an active role in our communities."