ALLENTOWN, PA – August 20, 2026 − Senator Nick Miller (D-Lehigh/Northampton) joined The Salvation Army Allentown Corps today to present a $250,000 state investment secured by his office to support critical renovations to the organization’s emergency shelter and Corps facilities.
The announcement came during The Salvation Army Allentown Corps’ 22nd Annual Backpack Giveaway and Community Street Fair, where more than 1,300 local children in grades 1 through 12 received free backpacks filled with school supplies as families prepare for the upcoming school year.
Senator Miller presented Salvation Army leaders with a ceremonial check recognizing the state investment, which will help fund a range of critical facility improvements, including a new roof, HVAC upgrades, electrical and lighting improvements, kitchen and bathroom renovations, updated flooring and signage, improved entryways, and sidewalk enhancements.
“This investment is about addressing homelessness in the midst of a growing housing crisis and making sure people in our community have a safe and dignified place to turn when they need help most,” said Senator Nick Miller. “The Salvation Army is on the front lines every day helping individuals and families through some of their most difficult moments. After hearing directly about the improvements needed at their facilities, I was proud to help secure this $250,000 in state funding. These renovations will strengthen their emergency shelter, improve the services they provide, and help ensure they can continue serving the Lehigh Valley for years to come.”
“When a mother and her children come to us during a housing crisis, our goal is to provide more than a safe place to stay. We want to provide a welcoming environment where families can find stability, access support, and begin taking steps toward permanent housing,” said Captain Jesus Corraliza, Corps Officer at The Salvation Army Allentown Corps. “These improvements will help us continue providing that level of care to families in our community, and we are grateful to Senator Miller for investing in this facility and the people it serves.”
Last month, Senator Miller announced more than $5.7 million in RACP funding for major infrastructure, education, economic development, and quality-of-life projects across the Lehigh Valley, including a $250,000 investment for The Salvation Army in Allentown.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) is a state grant program managed by the Office of the Budget to fund design, acquisition, and construction of projects that boost regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical development.
Attendees:
Senator Nick Miller, 14th District State Senator
The Salvation Army Allentown Corps
Representatives from the following entities:
Captains Maria and Jesus Corraliza
Corps Officers
The Salvation Army Allentown Corps
Representatives from Hands in Service
Toys for Tots and Good360
Representatives from Highmark Wholecare and Jefferson Health Plans
Representative from GIANT
Participating children and families
The full press event can be found on Senator Miller’s website.