Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) has been awarded a highly competitive COVID-19 Relief - Supporting Elm and Main Program grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

The grant totals $50,000 and will help OMI continue its efforts to promote the downtown business district. 

The COVID-19 Relief - Supporting Elm and Main Program is supported by Keystone Communities funding, and is intended to assist Elm Street and Main Street organizations that have been economically impacted by the health crisis. Eligible applicants for the program included designated Keystone Main Street, Keystone Elm Street, or Keystone Communities organizations, 2020 Nationally Accredited Main Street programs, and community development organizations. 

Applicants were required to employ, and continue to employ, for at least the next year, a paid professional manager or coordinator responsible for the administration of the revitalization strategy and program. 

“On behalf of the Oxford Mainstreet Board of Directors, we are thrilled to have received the DCED’s $50,000 grant,” said Ed Herr, the chairman of the board. “We feel that this grant provides more stability for OMI during a time when the large majority of our events have been cancelled. In addition, the grant enables us to assist in funding our Mainstreet Manager, whose efforts are invaluable to us.” 

Christianna Hannum, the executive director of Oxford Mainstreet added, “We are profoundly grateful to the DCED for providing these necessary funds. We are dedicated to the town of Oxford’s vitality and this funding is a real boost for our efforts.”