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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 22, 2004

SCHUMER SECURES $350,000 FOR OLIVENCIA COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT IN BUFFALO

Funding included in FY2005 Omnibus Appropriations Bill

Federal Funding would be used to construct a second floor at the center

US Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that Congress passed the FY2005 Omnibus Appropriations bill late Saturday night which includes $350,000 in federal funding for the Augustin "Pucho" Olivencia Community Center to build a second floor at their Buffalo center. The funding was included in the VA-HUD Appropriations section of the bill. The bill will now be sent to the President for his signature.

“This funding is great news for Buffalo’s Puerto Rican community. For thirty years the center played a pivotal roll for those who use it– from after school help for kids struggling in school, to recreational activities everyone can enjoy,” Schumer said. “Expanding the size of the center will expand its reach into the community.”

The Agustin “Pucho” Olivencia Center was built thirty years ago on the foundation of community and family strength. The center is very important to Buffalo’s Puerto Rican community and offers educational, cultural, and recreational activities. The funds will be used to add a second floor to the current building. The first floor will be converted to a multi service recreational and educational room to continue to provide the current services as well as expand the tutorial services to include a learning lab.

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