ICYMI: Boyle Delivers $1.1 Million in Federal Funding to Congreso de Latinos Unidos for Facility Upgrades
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) joined leaders from Congreso de Latinos Unidos in North Philadelphia to highlight $1.1 million in federal funding he secured to upgrade Congreso’s headquarters and ensure the building is fully accessible for all Philadelphians.
“It is really hard to imagine what our community would be like if we didn't have Congreso and all of the good work that this organization undertakes on behalf of the same constituents that we have the opportunity to serve together,” said Congressman Boyle. “I believe that one of the most important aspects of my job as a member of Congress is to fight for every dollar that I can bring home to my constituents here in Philadelphia who need those resources. So, I am very proud and excited to announce that I was able to secure and bring back from Washington, DC $1.1 million to support the good works here at Congreso.”
The federal investment Congressman Boyle secured is already making a difference. Earlier this year, Congreso completed a full renovation of its elevators, addressing long-standing congestion that created barriers for families and individuals with mobility issues. Additional improvements are now underway, including a forty-foot ADA-compliant ramp with upper and lower landings, upgraded doors and steel gates, and a redesigned lobby to better serve residents as they seek critical resources.
Founded in 1977 by Puerto Rican activists, Congreso has grown into one of Philadelphia’s most trusted community organizations, helping thousands of residents each year—particularly in Latino neighborhoods—achieve stability and wellbeing through education, job training, health and safety services, family and parenting, and housing support.
“I want to thank Congressman Boyle for his leadership and his commitment to our community,” said Jannette Diaz, President & CEO of Congreso de Latinos Unidos. “Each year we serve more than 14,000 individuals across our core pillars of education, health, housing, workforce development, and family services. But none of these services matter if people cannot physically access them. Accessibility ensures that every individual, regardless of ability, can come through our doors to get the support they need.”
“Thank you very, very much, Congressman, for this federal grant. It really has transformed our building with this funding,” said Mary Lynn Alvarino, CFO of Congreso de Latinos Unidos. “We've modernized the two elevators. In this more than 100-year-old facility, the upgrade was long overdue. We're going to renovate the side entrance of the courtyard by reconfiguring the steps and adding a ramp so that it's accessible for everyone. We're going to extend the patio so that we'll be able to host outdoor events out there, and we will improve safety with enhanced lighting.”
This investment shows that Congressman Boyle’s work in Washington is delivering real results in Philadelphia, helping community institutions like Congreso continue their decades of service with the resources and facilities they need to thrive.
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