Congratulations to the Midtown Utica Community Center!

MUCC Awarded $450,000 Grant

Governor Kathy Hochul this week announced that more than $57 million has been awarded to support 238 projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Round XIII included Empire State Development grant funds and Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits, which was made available on a continuous and competitive basis to support the immediate needs of communities.

Award will facilitate rehabilitation of the rear wing

Midtown Utica Community Center. Photo courtesy of Midtown Utica Community Center Facebook page.

Here in the Mohawk Valley, the Midtown Utica Community Center (MUCC) was awarded a $450,000 ESD Grant to rehabilitate the rear wing of its community center, allowing for expanded programming and employment services, which primarily serve the refugee, immigrant and low-income youth in a severely distressed neighborhood in Utica. MUCC will launch a new program with Utica City School District to help orient newly arrived refugee, immigrant and youth into the community. Total Project Cost: $1.2 Million

“New York State is supporting our growing communities by investing in shovel-ready projects that will encourage job creation and help boost local economies,” Governor Hochul said. “The range of these projects reflects crucial Regional Economic Development Council input from the stakeholders who know their local assets and industries best, helping us to make strategic investments to create opportunity in our communities, both now and for the future.”

The application for Empire State Development Grant funds remains open, and applications are being reviewed on an on-going basis until funds are exhausted. Applicants with strong, shovel-ready projects that align with the state and region’s economic development priorities can apply through the Consolidated Funding Application.

Utica Rotary’s Not So Silent Gift Auction to benefit MUCC

The Utica Rotary’s Not So Silent Night Gift Auction, presented by Mohawk Valley Wellness, returns to the 72 Tavern and Grill on Thursday, December 7 from 6-7:30 p.m. This year’s event will benefit the Midtown Utica Community Center.

While there is no cost of admission, a monetary donation and/or donation of items to be auctioned would be greatly appreciated. If you are a local business or organization interested in donating something for the auction or have general questions about the event, contact Travis Rabbers at rabbe1ta@gmail.com.