Good news: Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) is now accepting applications for the second round of grants from the Mon Valley Public Health Fund—a fund established through the U.S. Steel Settlement related to the 2018 Christmas Eve fire at the U.S. Clairton Coke Works.
This next phase of funding follows two recent public engagement sessions where community members weighed in on the impact of previously funded projects and helped shape the priorities for future investments. These sessions also offered insights into the updated application process and what to expect in future rounds.
“As I said when U.S. Steel agreed to settle related to the 2018 Christmas Eve fire, this investment is a win for the people of Allegheny County and the Mon Valley. I’m happy that ACED is working with the community to put this money into projects that deliver on clean air and economic development goals,” County Executive Sara Innamorato said in a press release Monday.
“Our commitment to this region is rooted in listening to those who live and work here,” said ACED Director Lauren Connelly. “The steps we’ve taken—from the building awareness to awarding the funds—has been informed by community voices. These grants are more than investments in public health; they’re investments in the people and places that make the Mon Valley what it is.”
Funding must be directed toward initiatives that support public health with an emphasis on air quality improvement and mitigation efforts within the Mon Valley communities surrounding U.S. Steel’s Clairton, Edgar Thomson, and Irvin facilities.
Projects must demonstrate a clear and measurable impact on local well-being. The fund cannot be used for lobbying or advocacy, and applicants with any past legal action against U.S. Steel, or those utilizing experts who have testified against the company, are not eligible to apply.
Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in and serving Mon Valley communities including:
Braddock, Clairton, Glassport, East McKeesport, Elizabeth Borough, Elizabeth Township, Forward, Jefferson Hills, Pleasant Hills, Dravosburg, McKeesport, Port Vue, Liberty, Lincoln, West Mifflin, Braddock, North Braddock, East Pittsburgh, Duquesne, Versailles and North Versailles.
Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. May 23.
Organizations can submit applications through the County’s online portal at Allegheny County Economic Development's Application Portal. Please select the “Mon Valley Public Health & Welfare Fund” when applying.