SHARON

Charitable foundation receives donation

The Primary Health Network Charitable Foundation has received a $5,000 donation from UPMC Health Plan to support its Pre-Kindergarten Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program. The funds will be used to assist local students with tuition costs, directly addressing financial barriers to education in the communities served by PHN.

By offering tuition assistance, the program helps bridge the gap for families who might otherwise be unable to afford preschool.

STATE COLLEGE

Improvement District begins small business campaign

The Downtown State College Improvement District has announced the return of “Love for Local” in support of local businesses.

Starting Feb. 10, Love for Local encourages community members to shop and dine locally, supporting the small businesses that make Downtown State College unique. As a token of appreciation, the DSCID will offer free Downtown Gift Cards to customers who meet specific spending thresholds.

Spend $100 or more at one or more businesses in the Downtown State College Improvement District and receive a $25 Downtown Gift Card; spend $250 or more and receive a $60 Downtown Gift Card.

Customers must purchase items from participating businesses within the district. A full list of eligible businesses can be found on the DSCID website.

For more information about the Love for Local campaign, including rules and exceptions, contact Executive Director Lee Anne Jeffries at 814-238-7004 or visit the DSCID’s website.

Bealls sets opening date

Bealls, offering a selection of clothing, shoes and home decor, will open for business beginning at 9 a.m. March 7 at 229 Park Hills Plaza, Altoona. A ribbon cutting will be held at 8:50 a.m.

Bealls Inc. operates more than 600 stores across 23 states under various brand names, each catering to different customer needs.