Verobish Announces Nearly $700,000 in Safety and Mental Health Grants for Local Schools

August 14, 2026

BLAIR – Three schools districts in the 79th Legislative District will receive a combined $698,067 for the upcoming school year in school safety and mental health grants, Rep. Andrea Verobish (R-Blair) announced today. 

Grants were approved through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s (PCCD) School Safety and Security Committee.

The funding breakdown is as follows:

  • Altoona Area School District: $397,295.
  • Hollidaysburg Area School District: $230,772.
  • Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center: $70,000.

Schools can use these grants for physical security enhancements, behavioral health supports or both. 

“Creating a space that is safe and comfortable for students is necessary for a healthy learning environment,” Verobish said. “This funding helps make that possible, and provides peace of mind for teachers, students and parents.” 

The PCCD’s School Safety and Security Committee administers programs designed to improve school safety and security, strengthen behavioral health supports, and provide training and technical assistance to schools across the Commonwealth.