Posted on January 4, 2023 by Heather Adams

State Recognizes Barrio Alegria in Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program

by Barrio Alegria

State Recognizes Barrio Alegria in Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program

Best known for its innovative art initiatives, Barrio Alegría is now recognized by the state of Pennsylvania for empowering the Latino community with its community development programming. Barrio helps support small businesses, aspiring entrepreneurs and an alternative currency economy in the Reading area.

The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development has certified Barrio and a partnering company as participants in the state’s Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program, which encourages businesses to invest in projects which improve economically distressed areas.

The designation, specifically within the state’s Special Program Priorities, means the business helping fund Barrio’s community development work will receive a tax credit worth 75% of the contribution.

Barrio is already putting the special designation to work through its Growing Roots and Sprouting Shoots (GRASS) revitalization program. GRASS aims to support Berks’ Latino entrepreneurs and businesses by making $40,000 accessible in financing. GRASS encompasses microlending circles, culturally relevant financial education, business support services and a skills-trade economy known as “time banking.”

“Being a part of the state’s Special Program Priorities is an exciting development that really plants Barrio’s flag in the community development realm,” said Anthony Orozco, Barrio’s director of operations. “Our goal is to not only create access to capital, but to empower our neighbors with critical information to ensure they thrive.”

“And better yet, industry is already seeing the benefit in having Barrio as a trusted partner to strengthen our Latino workforce and businesses,” Orozco added.

Barrio joins organizations such as Berks Latino Workforce Development Corp., GoggleWorks Center for the Arts and Alvernia University in this unique state tax credit program. The full list of approved projects for the state’s Neighborhood Assistance Program can be read here.  Attached to this release is a large photo file of the 2022 South of Penn financial literacy class pictured above.

News organizations interested in learning more about Barrio’s lending programs, “time banking” or the SPP tax credit, please contact Anthony Orozco at [email protected]

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Community Testimonials

Wish my town had a channel like this, very cool idea to bring the community together and give people a platform.

James

I wanted to thank you again for the opportunity you have created for our kids.  This experience is more than the TV show.  Eight students who probably never would have talked to each other were excited to execute a plan. Know that you make a difference.

Kristi

Thanks for your commitment to communication far and wide, for your technical support, and tireless efforts to bring fresh programs to BCTV. Bravo!

Liz

Thank you for always being receptive to my ideas. All of your efforts help me to help others and that is a blessing to me.

Adrean

Fantastic work and thanks so much for the quick turnaround!  Always a pleasure to work with you and the rest of the BCTV team!

Jim

Thank you and your staff for all you do to accommodate so many different shows, personalities, etc.!  Can’t be easy, but we really do appreciate it.

Martha

I am happy and proud to be a part of such a dedicated assembly of talent and purpose. Thank you for being a part of my efforts to promote theater and the arts in this region.

David