Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced Tuesday that 24 additional organizations that provide services to the state’s most vulnerable populations have received funding through the Budget Bridge Loan Program, which helps bridge the funding gap created by the nearly four-month-long budget stalemate.

“The Budget Bridge Loan Program continues to fulfill its purpose by ensuring critical services remain available to Pennsylvanians who rely on them,” Garrity said. “Organizations who serve our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians are working hard each day to have positive impacts on these communities, and the Budget Bridge Loans are helping to keep doors open and lights on so this important work can continue.”

This past week Treasury approved an additional 24 organizations to receive funds for a combined total of approximately $8.7 million.

Since the start of the program, more than $21 million has been distributed to 48 groups including 11 Head Start local agencies, 36 Pre-K Counts providers and one rape crisis center provider.

Since the $500 million short-term funding program launched in September to help Head Start local agencies and county governments, the Budget Bridge Loan Program has expanded to include Pre-K Counts providers and organizations that provide rape prevention and response services and domestic violence prevention and support for survivors.

“Pennsylvanians, especially the most vulnerable, should never have to pay the price for a budget stalemate,” Garrity said. “Treasury is committed to working diligently with applicants so funds can be delivered as quickly as possible.”

Treasury recently started listing recipients of the Budget Bridge Loan on its website. The list will be updated weekly.

“Access to this data ensures taxpayers are given a clear view on how this investment helps maintain vital programs and services while the state budget is at a standstill,” Garrity said.

Budget Bridge Loans must be used for immediate operating expenses and paid back within 10 business days of receipt of state funds.