OWEGO, N.Y. (WHCU) – Several organizations in Tioga County will benefit from over $8.5 million delivered by Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand for Southern Tier Infrastructure.

Racker was awarded 750 thousand dollars in funding to build facility larger than 15,000 square feet in Owego. The “Neighborhood Depot” will host several nonprofits including Tioga United Way, The Tioga County Rural Ministry, and Catholic Charities of Tompkins, Tioga, and Racker. Reduced administrative costs will help expand programs and services for people with disabilities, low-income families, and veterans. The move into the facility positions these non-profits above the flood zone, allowing the facility itself to serve as a community recovery center after natural disasters.

“The Neighborhood Depot is an exciting project in Owego, New York, that will allow nonprofits to share services, reduce overhead costs and increase the investment for programs in our community,” said Director of Community Relations and Development for Racker, Bob Brazill. “This new construction project sits above the 500-year flood zone and will serve as an emergency recovery center for Tioga County during times of catastrophic flooding. Racker and our participating nonprofits are thankful for the hard work and commitment of Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand. Their support of our project and communities throughout New York State help serve the most vulnerable people and their neighbors.”