For Spanish readers, please read the full Spanish-language version of this email here.

I hope you are well. I would like to share important information about my ongoing work. As always, please feel free to reach out to my office for help with any state-related issues. And don't forget, to stay informed, visit my official page. You also can check your preferences to make sure you're signed up for my emails. 

Para los lectores en español, lea una versión completa de este boletín electrónico en su idioma aquí. 

Espero que estén bien. Me gustaría compartir información importante sobre mi trabajo en curso. Y no olvides visitar mi página oficial para mantenerte informado. También puede verificar sus preferencias para asegurarse de que está registrado para recibir mis correos electrónicos.

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the incredible contributions that women have made throughout history and continue to make in shaping our communities and our world. This month, we honor the achievements and advancements of women, from the trailblazers who fought for equality and justice to those who inspire and lead today.

In honor of Women’s History Month, I’m excited to invite you to a special event dedicated to supporting women in our community!

Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Zion Baptist Church in Reading for a special event dedicated to supporting women in our community.

This fair will bring together essential resources, including mental health support, education opportunities, health and wellness services, insurance information, and more. My team will also be there to answer questions and share details on state programs and services available to you.

Location: Zion Baptist Church, 224 Washington St., Reading, PA 19601

Take advantage of this opportunity to connect, learn, and access valuable resources. Hope to see you there!

On Monday in West Reading, we continue to take important steps toward making our communities safer. I was proud to join Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, State Senator Judy Schwank, other local leaders, and the dedicated team at Reading Hospital – Tower Health to celebrate $600,000 in state funding to expand the hospital’s violence intervention program and nearly $500,000 for The Salvation Army of Reading, PA's trauma-informed prevention efforts. With one in every three days gun-related injuries in the area treated at Reading Hospital, this funding is critical to providing support for victims and reducing violence in our neighborhoods.

It’s part of a broader investment in community safety through the proposed state budget, which also increases funding for after-school programs to give kids safe, enriching spaces to learn and grow.

Thank you to the incredible healthcare workers, advocates, and community partners working together to create a safer, more vibrant Pennsylvania.

As we celebrated Dominican Independence Day on February 27, 2025, I had the privilege of recognizing Gabrielina Lopez, a dedicated community leader whose impact has been truly inspiring. Her commitment to uplifting and empowering others reflects the strength and resilience of the Dominican community here in Reading and beyond.

It was an honor to acknowledge her contributions and celebrate the rich culture, history, and heritage of the Dominican Republic. I look forward to continuing to support and uplift the voices of those making a difference in our community!

On Thursday, I had the honor of attending the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Soiree at Alvernia University in celebration of Black History Month. The event showcased Black excellence and highlighted the achievements of outstanding individuals in our community.

This year’s theme, "Bridging the Gap: Intergenerational Dialogue and Collaboration," emphasized the importance of connecting across generations to celebrate Black heritage and achievement. The evening featured powerful performances, poetry readings, and meaningful discussions that inspired and uplifted everyone in attendance.

A special congratulations to Ebony McNiel, recognized for founding The Forge, and to English Bradley, the current chief of staff for the Mayor of Reading, recognized for her community involvement and many accolades. The event was organized by Bring the Change Organization, led by Executive Director Alex Civil.

It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and continue fostering strong connections in our community. I am grateful to the organizers and participants who made this event so special!

On Feb. 27, I had the pleasure of attending the West Reading Motor Club’s reopening ribbon-cutting ceremony. This exciting event marked a new chapter for a beloved local establishment, bringing fresh opportunities for our community to gather, dine, and enjoy.

It was wonderful to celebrate with business leaders, community members, and local officials who all share a passion for supporting small businesses and economic growth in our region. The Motor Club’s reopening is a testament to the resilience and dedication of those working to make West Reading a vibrant place to live and visit.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact this revitalized space will have on our community!

Looking for family friendly activities this month? Check out the upcoming events at the Reading Public Museum. More information on their website.

Do you have a child in Wyomissing Area entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2025?

You’re invited to a FREE program at Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 4:40 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Spartan Sprouts is a program designed specifically for incoming Kindergarteners to introduce strategies and activities that can easily be done at home and will help prepare the children for school in the fall. The event includes hands-on activities, and a Wyomissing Area swag bag filled with all the materials and instructions necessary to continue practicing at home.

There are two event dates set for Spartan Sprouts. The activities at both events are the same. You can choose to come to one or both events. Coming to both will allow you to take your time going through all the activities. It will also help build comfort for your incoming Kindergarten student. Only 1 bag of resources will be given.

Reserve your spot today: https://buff.ly/sfsa4PS

Contact Dr. Wengerd at twengerd@wyoarea.org with any questions!

Discover the magic of spring at Wyomissing Hills Memorial Park with the Borough of Wyomissing’s Annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 12 at 11 a.m.! This beloved community tradition invites families to gather for a joyous and “egg-citing” event filled with laughter, surprises, and community spirit.

Children aged 1-12 are welcomed to participate in the Egg Hunt, with staggered start times ensuring that each age group has a fair and fun experience as they search for delightful treasures hidden throughout the park.

Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories and celebrate the joys of spring with your fellow Wyomissing residents. Bring your baskets, your smiles, and your sense of adventure for a morning of unforgettable fun.

Wyomissing’s Annual Egg Hunt promises to be an “egg-stra” special occasion for all ages. Mark your calendars, and join us for this cherished celebration of spring! If needed, the next day - Sunday, the 13th is the rain date.

Planning for college costs? Join PHEAA’s free Financial Aid Assistance Webinars this March! These sessions will cover essential topics like financial aid timelines, understanding offer letters, improving credit for loans, and planning for higher education costs.

Register today: pheaa.org/virtual

Secure your spot now and take the first step toward an affordable education!

March 2025:
Financial Aid Timeline – Know What to Do When

• March 10 – Noon
• March 24 – 6:30 PM 

Understanding the Offer Letter & Balances

• March 12 – 6:30 PM 
• March 26 – Noon 

To help ensure residents in our area can secure a REAL ID by the deadline of May 7, PennDOT will be hosting REAL ID DAYS:

• Reading Driver License Center at 530 E. Lancaster Ave., Shillington, on April 14 and May 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Exeter Township Driver License Center at 4375 Perkiomen Ave., Reading, on March 17 and May 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If you have any questions concerning REAL ID, visit PennDOT.pa.gov/REALID or contact my district office at 484-577-2756.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will begin enforcement of REAL ID requirements beginning May 7. This means that to board a domestic flight, enter a military base or a federal facility that requires identification at the door, one will need a REAL ID unless they have a U.S. passport, military ID or other federally acceptable identification.

More than 2 million Pennsylvanians are now eligible to use Direct File, the IRS tool that allows you to file your federal and state tax returns online securely and for FREE. The IRS launched this tool last year, but 2025 will be the first year PA residents can use it.

Check to see if you will be eligible to use Direct File to file this year’s personal income tax returns at https://directfile.irs.gov/.

Eligible seniors and residents with a disability: you can now apply for a rebate on property taxes or rent you paid in 2024!

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits income-eligible seniors 65 or older, widows or widowers 50 or older, and residents with a disability 18 or older. The program has been expanded to provide larger rebates and a higher qualifying income threshold. (The limit is now $46,520 for both homeowners and renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded for income calculation purposes.)

Please remember that my office can help you apply!

As always, my team and I are here to help you navigate state programs and services. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. If you can't make it into my district office, you can visit one of my satellite offices! Find the informatoin below:

Centro Hispano Casa Senior Center

25 N. 2nd St., Reading, PA, 19601

every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Spring Township Municipal Building 

2850 Windmill Rd., Sinking Spring, PA, 19608

1st and 3rd Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

100 N Front St., Reading, PA, 19601

1st and 3rd Monday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Glenside/Hensler Homes O'Pake Community Center

880 Avenue A, Reading, PA, 19601

2nd and 4th Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

We also host D.A.V Services (Disabled American Veterans) in my office

1111 Penn Ave., Wyomissing, PA 19610

every other Monday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.