Technical assistance is also awarded to several institutions each year. The Historic Religious Properties grant and technical assistance program is funded through contributions from Landmarks members and trustees. To qualify, a religious institution must be located in Allegheny County, be at least 50 years old , have an active, though not necessarily large congregation, offer some community service and be of architectural or historical significance. The church or synagogue must also be or become a member of Landmarks.
Religious buildings are often the cornerstones of communties.
Aside from being prominent local landmarks, these structures hold considerable psychological and social significance for both their congregations and the surrounding neighborhoods. In recent years, however, age and neglect have taken their toll on many of these important places of worship. Congregations have dwindled in size, and financial support has become limited. Maintenance has been deferred, and serious problems with structures and mechanical systems have developed. Often, the scope of these challenges exceeds the resources of the groups that own these buildings.