To help further The Arc of Chester County's mission to advocate, educate, and provide services to empower individuals with disabilities, state Sen. Carolyn Comitta obtained new state grant funding for security upgrades at the organization's West Chester facility.

The $50,000 award from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development will provide for several security enhancements at The Arc's facility. The security upgrades will consist of new lighting, cameras, a door entry, fencing, and gating to keep the facilities and all those inside safe from harm.

Throughout this year's budget negotiations, Comitta joined community members, caregivers, and advocates to support increased investments for those with intellectual disabilities and the direct support professionals who care for them. These efforts helped to secure a 7% rate increase for home- and community-based service providers.

The Arc of Chester County serves more than 3,000 individuals and families annually, providing a lifetime of programs and services for those with differing abilities and advocating to ensure that individuals with disabilities are afforded their full rights and freedoms.