UTICA, N.Y. — A local organization that addresses poverty, homelessness and economic instability in the community will receive a $500,000 grant. 

The Johnson Park Green Community Center is part of JCTOD Outreach, Inc’s, which provides access to community skill-building classes, children’s programs, childcare, food pantry and community space. 

“JCTOD Outreach, Inc. dba Johnson Park Center (JPC) is a faith-based non-profit organization that promotes positive change, revitalization, and community development in the heart of Cornhill, the poorest neighborhood in the City of Utica, New York,” the Johnson Park Center’s website states. 

According to a release from the governor’s office, “JCTOD will complete the community center by building out the second floor of the Johnson Park Community Center to house the current JPC children’s program called Head, Hand, and Heart (HHH), as well as the Head Start program.”

The money is part of more than $15 million in Regional Economic Development grant funds allocated to 19 projects across the state. 

JPC was recommended for the funding for their project readiness and alignment with each region’s strategic plan, according to the governor’s office.