BETHLEHEM, PA – Via of the Lehigh Valley announced it has been awarded a Community Grant in the amount of $3,000 from The Provident Bank Foundation to support their Community Employment Services.

Via was selected to receive this grant based on Via’s expertise in creating innovative employment solutions for job seekers with disabilities and matching those solutions with business needs. Individuals with disabilities between the age of 14 and retirement age are served by Via’s Employment Services.  The goal of this program is to increase the number of workers with a disability in competitive integrated employment by helping them prepare for, find, attain, and retain jobs. Last year, 353 students and adults benefited from this program.

“We depend upon community support to fund the gap between government funding and the true cost to provide these critical services. We can’t thank The Provident Bank Foundation enough for this generous grant,” said Lisa Walkiewicz, Via’s President & CEO.

“We are pleased to help further valuable initiatives put forth by local organizations who are working every day to strengthen the lives of residents in our communities,” said Samantha Plotino, Executive Director, The Provident Bank Foundation. “We will continue to provide support to these important organizations that have identified an immediate need in the community and for the individuals they serve.”

About Via of the Lehigh Valley

Serving our community since 1952, Via helps people reach their full potential.  In a typical year, Via provides services to 1,250 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Bucks and Berks counties. These services include vocational exploration, community employment, educational activities, volunteer and recreational opportunities for teens and adults and early intervention therapies and inclusive education for young children. Visit www.ViaNet.org to learn more.

About The Provident Bank Foundation

The Provident Bank Foundation was established in 2003 by Provident Bank to enhance the quality of life in the region through support of not-for-profit groups, institutions, schools and other 501(c)(3) organizations that provide services in communities served by the Bank. Since inception, the Foundation has granted more than $27 million to not-for-profit organizations and institutions working toward stronger communities. For more information, visit www.theprovidentbankfoundation.org or call (862) 260-3990.