Lancaster was officially recertified as a welcoming city this week.
The nonprofit Welcoming America‘s Certified Welcoming program recognizes communities that meet its “Welcoming Standard.” Components include support for immigrants in the areas of education, economic development, integration into the community, language access and support in obtaining citizenship.
Lancaster first obtained its Certified Welcoming status in 2019. It is one of just 16 Certified Welcoming communities in the U.S. and is one of three in Pennsylvania, along with Erie and Pittsburgh.
City officials had been awaiting Welcoming America’s decision since late August, when representatives of the organization came here to evaluate Lancaster in person.
“Being redesignated as a Certified Welcoming city is a testament to Lancaster’s continued commitment to creating an inclusive community where everyone can belong,” Mayor Danene Sorace said in a statement.
