OLEAN — Two local nonprofit organizations are expecting to receive more than $271,000 combined in New York state grant funding to support local families and veterans.
Gov. Kathy Hochul earlier this week announced more than $40 million in capital grants to support capital and infrastructure needs at 136 nonprofit organizations.
Directions in Independent Living, Inc. is reported to receive $85,807, while Southern Tier Health Care System Inc. is reported to receive $185,730.
Officials at Southern Tier Health Care System said they’re thrilled to receive this generous grant from the governor’s office through the DASNY Nonprofit Infrastructure Capital Investment Program (NICIP).
“These funds will be instrumental in addressing critical infrastructure needs, specifically allowing us to replace the roof at our headquarters located at 150 N. Union St.,” said Donna L. Kahm, president and CEO of Southern Tier Health. “This improvement is essential for ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for our staff, clients and community partners.”
Krissy Wagner, executive director of operations at Directions in Independent Living, said, “On behalf of myself and Kate Steigerwald, executive director of services, we are thrilled to be recipients of this Capital Grant funding. We will now be able to do upgrades and modifications to our building that will make it more disability friendly.”
Wagner said their main office, located at 512 W. State St., is more than 100 years old. The grant will allow Directions to replace old carpet and flooring with carpet tiles to increase accessibility for consumers and employees who utilize manual or electric wheelchairs or other mobility devices, install new lighting, replace the dehumidifier and HVAC system and make repairs to the interior walls.
“We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making the new changes,” she added.
The announced awards to 118 human services organizations are through the Nonprofit Infrastructure Capital Investment Program (NICIP). Administered by the Dormitory Authority of New York State (DASNY), the NICIP provides capital grants of up to $500,000 to empower nonprofits across the state to undertake projects that improve the delivery of critical services.
“This round of funding will help organizations across our state continue to deliver critical services to the New Yorkers who need them — including veterans and families,” Hochul said.
Hochul launched the NICIP opportunity in October 2023 to make targeted investments throughout the state that improve the quality, efficiency and accessibility of nonprofit human services organizations. DASNY received over 500 funding applications for this program.
Qualifying nonprofit organizations were eligible to receive between $50,000 and $500,000 in NICIP funding for reimbursement of eligible capital costs including technology, renovations and expansion of space used for direct program services as well as renovations that enhance energy efficiency or accessibility.
