BETHLEHEM, Pa. — One of South Bethlehem’s most vital social service agencies will get a nearly $500,000 boost to expand its facilities.
New Bethany is getting $475,000 to transform its daytime drop-in center into a full-service community resource.
The plan includes renovating more than 18,500 square feet as part of the transitional housing agency’s Paving the Way campaign.
“As New Bethany marks 40 years of service and the affordability crisis continues to intensify, this funding comes at a critical moment."New Bethany Executive Director Marc Rittle
Executive Director Marc Rittle said New Bethany’s client roster has nearly doubled since before the COVID-19 pandemic. He said resources have been stretched beyond capacity.
“As New Bethany marks 40 years of service and the affordability crisis continues to intensify, this funding comes at a critical moment,” Rittle said in a news release.
“As we expand our campus and deepen our offerings, we will pave the way for our neighbors in need.”
The funding was announced by state Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Northampton/Lehigh, and state Rep. Steve Samuelson, D-Northampton.
The Statewide Local Share Account grant comes from taxes collected through the state’s gaming laws and provides for distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
'Needs are greater than ever'
Based at 333 Wyandotte St., New Bethany is an advocacy and assistance organization that supports those experiencing hunger, poverty and homelessness.
The drop-in center serves meals daily and provided more than 40,000 in 2024.
The expansion is designed to offer a “health hub,” providing primary, mental and telehealth services; a community hygiene center; meal service seven days a week; and training space for education, job and financial literacy.
“New Bethany has provided hope, opportunity and life-changing resources to thousands of people through the decades."State Rep. Steve Samuelson, D-Northampton
Expanding the office and case management space will enable doubling the number of people supported each year, organizers say.
“The demand for their services has created the need to expand their community center and this $475,000 grant will allow them to meet their demand and provide those services in a more efficient and effective manner,” Boscola said in a statement.
Said Samuelson: “New Bethany has provided hope, opportunity and life-changing resources to thousands of people through the decades.
"This state funding will support vital improvements to their facilities and a significant expansion of the services they provide to our community at a time when the needs are greater than ever.”
