North Central PA Times

Senators Lynda Schlegel Culver and Gene Yaw, along with the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit (CSIU), have announced that CSIU has received funding from the federal Education Leading to Employment and Career Training Program (ELECT). The grant totals $665,560 and will be used to administer ELECT programs in the region.

The ELECT program is federally funded and collaborates with intermediate units, school districts, and charter schools. It aims to ensure educational continuity for individuals under 22 who are expecting or parenting a child by providing resources to help them obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.

Senator Culver expressed her congratulations to CSIU for securing these grants. She also thanked Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Education for selecting CSIU for these programs in the Susquehanna Valley. "I want to congratulate CSIU for obtaining these grants," said Sen. Culver. "I also want to thank Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Education for selecting CSIU for these important programs in the Susquehanna Valley that will be used to help young parents create a strong foundation for their families and, at the same time, help them achieve economic stability."

Senator Yaw highlighted the challenges faced by expectant and parenting students in rural areas. "Expectant and parenting students, especially in rural and underserved communities, can face exceptional challenges," he stated. "This funding will help provide critical resources and support to ensure that they are successful both in the classroom and at home. I am pleased to see significant investment in these programs."

Hiliary Haddon, ELECT Program Coordinator, expressed gratitude for the renewed grant funding for the 2023-2024 school year. She emphasized the program's long-standing commitment over 35 years to serve pregnant and parenting youth across Pennsylvania. “The CSIU ELECT program is so grateful to have our grant funding renewed for the 2023-2024 school year,” she said.

For those aware of young parents needing support while completing their education, referrals can be made through www.csiu.org/ELECT.

CSIU serves various school districts including Benton, Berwick, Bloomsburg, Central Columbia, Danville, Lewisburg, Line Mountain, Midd-West, Mifflinburg, Millville, Milton, Mount Carmel, Selinsgrove, Shamokin, and Shikellamy.