The National Canal Museum has received a $50,000 grant from the Julius & Katheryn Hommer Foundation Fund to support the museum’s general operations. The award represents a significant increase — $30,000 more than the museum’s typical request — and will help sustain educational programming and preservation efforts.

The Hommer Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the National Canal Museum. While the foundation paused its giving in 2024 during a reorganization, this renewed and expanded commitment reflects its belief in the museum’s vital role in preserving and sharing the history of America’s canals and the region’s industrial heritage.

Thanks in large part to the support of the Hommer Foundation in 2024, the National Canal Museum successfully expanded its capacity for the Immersion Days Field Trip Program held in April and May, resulting in a 150% increase in participation. In 2024 alone, over 4,400 students had the opportunity for hands-on learning of the industrial history of this region.

“These funds will help sustain essential operations — such as staffing, supplies and programming — especially as we prepare for a challenging year in 2026 when the anticipated bridge closure will impact visitor access to Hugh Moore Park and the National Canal Museum,” said Tony Pierucci, executive director of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. “We are deeply grateful to the Hommer Foundation for its support.”

The National Canal Museum, a signature program of Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, tells the story of America’s historic towpath canals, with a focus on Pennsylvania’s Lehigh and Delaware canals. Each year, thousands of students and adults engage with this heritage through outdoor experiences and educational programs, including the museum’s award-winning fourth-grade curriculum, Immersion Days field trips, environmental education initiatives, conferences and workshops.

Donations are encouraged. For more information, visit delawareandlehigh.org.