December 17, 2025
Monroeville, PA, December 17, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) announced $11,420,571 in Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) awards for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, bringing support to organizations and projects serving communities in Allegheny County.
NAP is a statewide tax credit initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to encourage private investment in community-focused nonprofit projects serving distressed areas or advancing neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing, job training, education, food security, crime prevention, and other vital community services. Businesses that contribute to approved projects can receive valuable state tax credits, strengthening partnerships between the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to address local needs.
“This year’s NAP awards will make a difference in neighborhoods across Allegheny County,” said Senator Pisciottano. “These projects represent solutions to long-standing challenges, from food security to job training and community development. I’m happy to see state resources supporting grassroots efforts to improve quality of life for our residents.”
The awards reflect DCED’s ongoing commitment to fostering thriving, resilient communities across the Commonwealth and highlight the vital work of nonprofit organizations partnering with local business contributors.
Examples of Impact Areas Supported by NAP:
- Affordable Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization
- Food Security & Charitable Food Programs
- Education & Job Training Programs
- Community Services & Crime Prevention Initiatives
A full list of NAP awards across the Commonwealth is available here.
Nonprofit organizations, working in partnership with private businesses, will use these NAP awards to finance projects that deliver services to residents, stabilize neighborhoods, and strengthen community infrastructure. By pairing private investment with state tax credits, these programs can reach more people and deliver measurable benefits at the local level.
Among the awards, $1,254,490 was approved for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support farm and retail donation incentives, increasing access to fresh, nutritious food for families while helping participating Pennsylvania businesses manage rising costs through state tax credits.
Senator Pisciottano encourages local nonprofits and businesses interested in community development to explore NAP and other state programs that support local projects and partnerships.
For more information about the Neighborhood Assistance Program, visit the DCED website.
December 16, 2025
Senate Bill 1094 Would Modernize Benefits and Close Gap in PA Law
Monroeville, PA, December 16, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) today announced the introduction of Senate Bill 1094, legislation that would strengthen protections for Pennsylvania workers suffering permanent scarring or disfigurement as the result of workplace injuries.
SB 1094 is the Senate companion to House Bill 183, sponsored by Representative Jason Dawkins (D-Philadelphia), which passed the House with bipartisan support (118–85) in April. Pisciottano’s bill modernizes Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation law by ensuring that employees who sustain permanent disfigurement are eligible for the benefits they deserve. Under current Pennsylvania law, workers can only receive disfigurement benefits for injuries to the head, neck, or face.
“Permanent scarring or disfigurement from a workplace injury is devastating,” said Senator Pisciottano. “Our workers’ compensation system shouldn’t deny someone support because their injury occurred on the wrong part of their body. This legislation brings our laws in line with common sense and basic fairness.”
SB 1094 would:
- Expand workers’ compensation eligibility for permanent disfigurement to cover the entire body;
- Increase the duration of benefits from 275 weeks to 400 weeks;
- Clarify that workers may receive disfigurement benefits concurrently with total or partial disability payments, rather than being forced to choose between them.
“These updates will give workers the stability they need while recovering from life-altering injuries,” Pisciottano said. “If you’re hurt on the job, especially if your injury is permanent, you should be able to provide for your family and receive fair compensation for your injury.”
Senator Pisciottano urged his colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join him in advancing this bipartisan legislation.
December 11, 2025
Allegheny County, PA, December 11, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) today announced that the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has approved $4,254,850 in federal and state funding to enhance community-based violence prevention efforts, expand services for crime victims, support children’s advocacy centers, and strengthen substance use treatment across Allegheny County.
“These awards are investments in the safety and wellbeing of residents throughout Allegheny County,” said Senator Pisciottano. “These grants will help our local partners continue offering life-changing services, and I’m proud to support these organizations and the critical work they do every day.”
Funding approved by PCCD includes grants from the Federal State Opioid Response (SOR) Program, State Children’s Advocacy Center Funds, Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Funds, Victims of Juvenile Offender (VOJO) Funds, the Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI), and the Federal Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) Program.
Allegheny County Award Recipients:
Federal State Opioid Response Grant IV (SOR) Funds
- $500,000 to Allegheny-Singer Research Institute – Post Release Stimulant Management (PRSM) Project
- $487,424 to Institute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions (IRETA) – Accelerating Access to Care
- $500,000 to Passages to Recovery, Inc. – Peer Advocacy Supportive Services (PASS)
- $500,000 to Unity Recovery – Allegheny County Justice-Involved Peer Expansion
State Children’s Advocacy Center Funds:
- $50,000 to A Child’s Place – ACP Allegheny and Regional Accredited Site 2026
- $49,757 to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh – Raising Awareness & Strengthening Community Knowledge
Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), Crime Victims Services & Compensation (CVSC), and Victims of Juvenile Offender (VOJO) Funds
- $53,139 to Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh – Assisting Victims of IPV in Criminal Court
- $80,392 to Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) – RASA and VOJO Services to Sexual Violence Victims
- $855,545 to Center for Victims – RASA/VOJO January 2026 – December 2026
- $18,580 to Crisis Center North, Inc. – Continued Magisterial Services
- $15,162 to Alle-Kiski Hope Center – HOPE RASA Services
Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI) Grant Program
- $944,851 to University of Pittsburgh – Empowering Teens to Thrive: Expanding HVIP Services
2026 Federal Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) Funds
- $200,000 to Allegheny County Chief Executive Officer – 2026 Allegheny County Jail RSAT Program
Senator Pisciottano emphasized that these awards reflect sustained advocacy for increased state and federal support for community safety, victims’ services, and behavioral health.
More information about the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency and the grants it awards can be found here.
December 2, 2025
Outer Limits Adventure Park
Join me at Monroeville’s premier destination for indoor adventure on this episode of “Nick in Your Neighborhood.” Spanning 11,000 square feet, Outer Limits Adventure Park is a one-of-a-kind activity center with something for everyone. From laser tag and climbing walls to arcade games, Ballocity, bounce houses, and Planet Playground for toddlers, this place launches family fun into a new galaxy.
Whether you’re planning an unforgettable birthday party, a school field trip, or just looking for a fun way to get out of the house, Outer Limits delivers an experience that’s truly beyond the ordinary!
November 19, 2025
Urges PUC to protect consumers facing rising household costs
Monroeville, PA, November 19, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) today announced his opposition to a proposed rate increase by Pennsylvania American Water, warning that higher monthly bills would place additional strain on families already grappling with rising costs.
Pennsylvania American Water has requested approval from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) to raise rates in order to fund $1.2 billion in ongoing water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades.
“This is the wrong time for a rate hike,” Pisciottano said. “I understand the need for long-term infrastructure improvements, but shifting these costs onto consumers is not the answer. Families are already navigating rising household expenses, and many cannot absorb another increase. At the same time, American Water is in the middle of a multibillion-dollar corporate merger with a net income in excess of $1 billion this year, so we shouldn’t be considering raising rates on Allegheny County’s working families to satisfy Wall Street shareholders. I am urging the PUC to consider these factors and center the needs of consumers when evaluating this rate case.”
Pisciottano said he will be submitting formal comments to the PUC urging rejection of the proposed rate hike and encouraged residents to share their concerns as well.
Consumers can write to the PUC at:
Secretary’s Bureau
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
400 North Street
Harrisburg, PA 17120
November 18, 2025
Monroeville, PA, November 18, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) today announced $1,863,612 in Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF) grants to support economic development projects across Allegheny County.
“These grants are investments in our communities, and I’m happy to help bring these funds back to Allegheny County,” said Senator Pisciottano. “From improving public facilities to supporting local job creation, GEDTF funding helps advance projects that make our region stronger and better prepared for future growth.”
GEDTF projects in Senator Pisciottano’s district receiving funding include:
- Brentwood received$160,000 for the Brentwood Community Park parking lot rehabilitation (with Rep. Benham)
- VC Waterfront Development received $25,000 for the West Homestead Barge & Marina (with Rep. Goughnour)
- White Oak received $105,000 for the White Oak Veteran’s Memorial Project (with Rep. Goughnour)
- Clairton Municipal Authority received $55,000 for the Park Avenue Storm Sewer Separation (with Rep. Goughnour)
- McKeesport received $140,000 for the Renziehausen Park Bandshell Improvements (with Rep. Goughnour)
- Executive Building in McKeesport received $55,000 for renovations and redevelopment (with Rep. Goughnour)
- Dravosburg received $100,000 for the Dravosburg Ballfield parking lot (with Rep. Inglis)
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul Council of Pittsburgh in West Mifflin received $60,000 for construction and renovation (with Rep. Inglis)
- Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics received $45,000 to expand Aviation Maintenance Training and Workforce Development (with Rep. Inglis)
- West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority received $85,500 for a roof replacement (with Rep. Kuzma)
- Elizabeth Township received $300,000 for the Richard Maha Park Improvement Project (with Rep. Kuzma)
- Elizabeth Borough received $200,000 for the Riverwalk ADA accessible walkway (with Rep. Kuzma)
- Monroeville received $75,000 for the Tall Trees Amphitheater lighting and ADA accessibility (with Rep. Markosek)
- Turtle Creek received $55,000 for PA DEP Storm Sewer Separation Project (with Rep. Markosek)
- North Versailles received $55,000 for road resurfacing (with Rep. Markosek)
- Plum received $55,000 for Holiday Park Phase 4.5 (with Rep. Markosek)
- East Pittsburgh received $50,000 for Quarry Field safety improvements (with Rep. Markosek)
- Logans Ferry Heights VFD in Plum received $128,112 for vehicle upgrades and safety equipment for first responders (with Rep. McAndrew)
- Castle Shannon received $25,000 for Fountain Street stairs and retaining wall (with Rep. Miller)
- Braddock received $40,000 for street reconstruction (with Rep. Salisbury)
- Heritage Community Initiatives in North Braddock received $50,000 for the Heritage Nutrition Services kitchen equipment (with Rep. Salisbury)
Senator Pisciottano thanked several state officials for their roles in bringing these funds back to the district, noting his partnerships with State Representatives Jessica Benham, Dan Goughnour, John Inglis, Andrew Kuzma, Brandon Markosek, Joe McAndrew, Dan Miller, and Abigail Salisbury.
“I’m proud of the teamwork that went into securing these awards,” Pisciottano added. “We want to help our constituents and bring funds back from Harrisburg to boost the communities we represent in Allegheny County, and it is a pleasure to work with these state representatives to do just that.”
The GEDTF program, administered by the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC), provides financial assistance to awardees to carry out important economic development projects that strengthen local infrastructure, support business growth, and expand community assets. Eligible applicants include municipalities, authorities, councils of government, non-profit organizations, and for-profit businesses.
More about RAAC funding is available online, and more information about CFA programs and funding is available here.
November 12, 2025
Highlights Wins for Working Families, Education Funding, No Tax Increases
Monroeville, PA, November 12, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) said the newly passed state budget delivers long-overdue but meaningful progress for working families, public schools, and community safety across Pennsylvania.
“While this budget took longer than it should have, I’m proud that the final product delivers programs that will make life more affordable, invest in our schools, and create jobs,” said Senator Pisciottano. “This is a responsible, balanced plan that prioritizes the needs of working families.”
The $50.09 billion spending plan represents a 4.75% increase from last year’s budget to keep pace with inflation, while maintaining the Commonwealth’s $7.5 billion Rainy Day Fund and spending $1.3 billion less than Governor Shapiro’s original proposal, a balanced compromise that invests in core priorities without raising taxes.
This year’s budget follows through on commitments to affordability and opportunity, including:
- $193 million for the new Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit, a Family Earned Income Tax Credit that will provide direct relief to nearly one million working residents, including to over 70,000 households in the 45th District.
- Historic investments in public education, fulfilling the court-ordered mandate to adequately and constitutionally fund Pennsylvania schools, including more than $20 million in new funding for schools in the 45th District.
- $100 million for school safety and mental health.
- $10 million increase for student teacher stipends, helping future educators gain classroom experience without taking on additional financial strain.
- Targeted support for public safety, including grants to reduce crime, drug addiction, and human trafficking, as well as additional funding for the State Police.
- Economic development and workforce initiatives that promote good-paying jobs, workforce development, and business growth.
Pisciottano emphasized that the new budget helps shield Pennsylvanians from economic instability fueled by national dysfunction.
“This budget supports working families, better schools, safer communities, and more opportunities to succeed,” Pisciottano added. “At a time when chaos and division in Washington are making life harder for everyday people, Pennsylvania is choosing to invest in stability, opportunity, and the future of our communities.”
November 7, 2025
Monroeville, PA, November 7, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) issued the following statement regarding Governor Shapiro’s announcement that his Administration is taking action to immediately issue full November Supplemental Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to nearly two million Pennsylvanians:
“I’m grateful to Governor Shapiro for acting swiftly to ensure that Pennsylvania families, seniors, and children receive their full SNAP benefits this month. Access to food is a basic necessity, not a political bargaining chip, and I’m relieved that nearly two million Pennsylvanians will not have to suffer because of federal dysfunction.
The federal court’s ruling is a reminder of how Washington gridlock can have real consequences for working families. In Allegheny County and across Pennsylvania, SNAP helps thousands of families put food on the table, supports local grocers and farmers, and reduces the pressure on community food banks.
I’ll continue working alongside Governor Shapiro and my colleagues in the General Assembly to protect access to food, support our charitable food network, and advocate for policies that ensure no Pennsylvanian goes hungry because of politics in Washington.”
November 6, 2025
In this episode of “Nick in Your Neighborhood,” join me at Brave Bean Coffee Company in Pitcairn, a veteran-owned café and roastery grounded in community and bringing new life to main street. Founded by Milo Speranzo, a U.S. Air Force veteran and Pitcairn native, Brave Bean began inside a former bank building, complete with the original vault still on display, and has quickly become a hub of neighborhood connection and hometown pride.
Inspired by the coffee Milo first discovered while working in Colombia, Brave Bean blends global flavor with local purpose. Each cup of coffee gives back by supporting veterans through programs like Buy a Coffee for a Veteran, donations to Wounded Warrior Project, and the installation of Hometown Hero Banners honoring local service members throughout Pitcairn.
With plans to expand across western Pennsylvania, Brave Bean Coffee Company proves that one small-town coffee shop really can help brew up a community revival.
October 31, 2025
Monroeville, PA, October 31, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) on Tuesday joined his colleagues in the Senate Democratic Caucus to introduce legislation to help Pennsylvanians facing an imminent loss of federal food assistance.
The proposal would appropriate $50 million to Pennsylvania’s food banks, $10 million to Meals on Wheels programs, and $2 million for administrative costs through the Pennsylvania Food Bank and Hunger Relief Grant Program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Importantly, funding would be drawn from interest earned on the state’s Rainy-Day Fund, not the principal balance, ensuring that the state’s long-term financial stability remains intact.
“Access to food is a basic human need, and no one in Pennsylvania should have to choose between paying their bills and putting meals on the table,” said Senator Pisciottano. “This legislation is about stepping up to fill the gap while we push for longer-term federal solutions to support working families, seniors, and vulnerable residents.”
Over 2 million Pennsylvanians are expected to lose a combined $300 million in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits when emergency allotments expire on November 1st. While the state measure will not fully offset those losses, it is designed to provide short-term, supplemental support to community food banks and nutrition programs that will see a surge in demand.
“Pennsylvania food banks are facing a dual crisis with a state budget impasse and the federal shutdown threatening the on-time delivery of SNAP benefits,” said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. “Our charitable feeding network is intended to complement, not replace, federal nutrition programs. With a surge of people coming to us for help in anticipation of a lapse of benefits, food banks and local food pantries need help now. Learn more and give today at pittsburghfoodbank.org and westmorelandfoodbank.org.”
In addition to the grant program proposed this week, Senator Pisciottano, Senator Jay Costa (D-Allegheny), and Senator Wayne Fontana (D-Allegheny) are partnering with The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania to collect non-perishable food items and monetary donations to stock Salvation Army food pantry shelves in neighborhoods:
WHAT: Non-perishable food items will be collected across seven Salvation Army locations on Thursday, November 6. Monetary donations to support neighbors in need can be made at any time online by visiting salvationarmywpa.org/feedPGH or by texting the word “FEEDPGH” to 31333.
WHEN: Food items will be collected across seven Salvation Army locations on Thursday, November 6 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Food items can be donated at the following Salvation Army locations from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 6.
- Pittsburgh Temple Worship and Service Center: 1060 McNeilly Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
- North Boroughs Worship and Service Center: 327 S. Home Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202
- Pittsburgh Westside Worship and Service Center: 1821 Broadhead-Fording Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15205
- Chartiers Valley Service Center: 39 W. Main Street, Carnegie, PA 15106
- Pittsburgh Homewood-Brushton Worship and Service Center: 8020 Frankstown Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15221
- Steel Valley Worship and Service Center: 104 East Ninth Avenue, Homestead, PA 15120
- Emergency Disaster Services warehouse: 820 Parish Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15220
