HARRISBURG, Nov. 18 – State Rep. Neal P. Goodman and state Sen. David Argall announced that Geisinger Health Foundation will receive $375,000 in state funding to build a healthcare facility for senior citizens within a former garment factory in Minersville that is being converted into affordable senior housing.
The LIFE Geisinger Health Services facility will be built in a 13,500-square-foot section on the second floor of the Miners Lofts development. It will include medical offices, examination rooms, patient shower rooms, a kitchen and an occupational rehabilitation area.
“The goal of the facility is to help seniors live independently as long as possible,” said Goodman, D-Schuylkill. “It will serve people who live in Minersville Lofts, as well as another 1,100 seniors who reside in the borough. I’m pleased that the state is continuing to invest in this important project.”
“Construction of the LIFE Geisinger Health Services Facility is yet another benefit to Minersville coming from this project,” said Argall, R-Schuylkill/Berks. “Miners Lofts will provide affordable housing, improve health care, breathe new life into an old building and give the community an economic shot in the arm through additional jobs.”
The LIFE Geisinger Health Services facility is expected to create 50 new permanent jobs. Another 20-30 temporary construction jobs will be created by this project.
The money for the health care facility is being provided through the Neighborhood Assistance Program. NAP can be used for projects that include affordable housing, community services, crime prevention, education, job training, charitable food, blight, special population issues, veterans’ initiatives and long-term community revitalization.
The Miners Lofts project previously received assistance from the PennHOMES program administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Financing Agency. It is receiving nearly $1.2 million in tax credits through the highly competitive program, along with a grant of $1.2 million.
CONTACT: Bob Laylo
Office of state Rep. Neal P. Goodman
Phone: 717-787-7226
Email: rlaylo@pahouse.net