Snodgrass's district lands most grants from state program, from childcare to treatment funding
Of the $50 million awarded as part of Wisconsin’s Non-State Grant Program in the latest state budget, nearly 10 percent went to projects in Assembly District 52 in and around Appleton.
The $5 million dispersed to the district represented the largest amount to go to any district represented by a Democrat. Lee Snodgrass has held the seat for three terms and is running for re-election this fall.
Among the projects selected for the 52nd were The Building for Kids Children Museum; First 5 Fox Valley, a child advocacy group; the Fox Cities Sports Development; and Mooring Programs, the residential addiction treatment division of the non-profit Apricity.
Eligible recipients must support local, non-profit, and public infrastructure building projects, have at least 50% non-state funding secured and be shovel-ready, and serve a public purpose.
“I was honored to enthusiastically advocate for all of these deserving district projects, helping to make these awards possible,” Snodgrass said. “From supporting families and kids to athletic opportunities and support for those struggling with substance use disorder, each project will support success for community members and enrich the lives of our neighbors. The quality of the applications and efforts of the grant recipients is evident as this historic sum of state investment is directed to the 52nd Assembly district.”
Just outside of 52 but in Senate District 18 in Oshkosh, ADVOCAP, the Advocacy and Community Action Program, will also receive $86,500 to improve access to affordable childcare by helping new childcare providers get started.
Added Appleton State Senator Kris Dassler-Alfheim: “These projects may be local to the Fox Valley, but their impact is going to be felt by kids and their families statewide. I’m glad that the State Building Commission saw the value in them that I do and voted to approve them.”
The Building for Kids Children’s Museum will receive $137,023 to enhance museum services, address safety vulnerabilities, and expand STEM learning opportunities. The publicly accessible gallery space will be expanded to include a new immersive play-based learning environment.
First 5 Fox Valley will receive $2 million to fund a Family Resource Center serving as a one-stop shop for families to access assistance with navigating resources, referrals, developmental screenings, parenting classes, and more.
Fox Cities Sports Development will receive $800,000 to expand the Community First Champion Center, allowing more teams to participate in tournaments and generating an additional $2.5 million annually in direct visitor spending in the Fox Valley.
Mooring Programs Inc Division of Apricity was awarded $2 million for their capital project to expand access to residential treatment for individuals with substance use disorder in Northwest Wisconsin.
