Sept. 19 Email: Raising awareness during National Suicide Prevention Month

Rep. Jennifer M. O'Mara September 19, 2025 | 12:37 PM

PA Representative Jennifer O'Mara's banner image

Dear Neighbor,

Suicide is a national public health crisis, causing immeasurable pain for people, families, and communities. In 2023, nearly 50,000 Americans died by suicide and 12.8 million people reported seriously considering suicide. This month is National Suicide Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, share resources, and remind one another that help is always available.

If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, know that it’s easy to find help. Simply dial 988 to reach one of the state’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call Centers, staffed 24/7 with trained counselors. It’s free and confidential.

No one should face their darkest moments alone—and remember, you are not alone.

For more information on the issue and the September prevention efforts, visit the Web site for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

SEPTA still needs a long-term funding solution

Due to a court order and PennDOT’s approval of a funding transfer, SEPTA restored full service this week to its bus and rail routes. A fare hike still went into effect (see the new rates at https://wwww.septa.org/fares/) and the transit agency is running by transferring money meant for upgrades and repairs.

The bottom line: SEPTA and other transit systems in PA still need a long-term solution to relieve their budget deficits. Using these transferred funds to cover operating expenses, without any commitment to replacing them, is not sustainable. It’s a Band-Aid.

I remain committed to finding a true funding solution for SEPTA and the other transit agencies in PA. I’ve already voted five times with my House Democratic colleagues to deliver full and permanent funding to public transit. But we need the GOP-controlled Senate to understand what should be plain and clear: Our transit crisis isn’t over—it’s only been postponed.

Electronics recycling collection in Rose Tree Park

Need to get rid of old electronics? The Pennsylvania Resources Council will host an electronics recycling collection on September 23 at Rose Tree Park. It’s a great way to responsibly dispose of TVs, computers, and stereo equipment. Get more information from their notice below.

Find job opportunities at PA CareerLink

Whether you’re just starting out in the workforce, considering a career change, or seeking new skills, PA CareerLink is here to help you land your next role at no cost.

PA CareerLink offers comprehensive job listings across every industry, resume reviews, interview preparation and career counseling, skills training and certifications, and a variety of workshops and job fairs. Get started by visiting the PA CareerLink website

Apply for fire company and EMS grants

The Office of State Fire Commissioner is accepting grant applications for fire companies and EMS squads to use for a wide range of purposes. The grants can be used for facility improvements, equipment purchases, debt reduction, training, education, and recruitment and retention. Grants will range from $2,500 to $20,000 per fire company and up to $15,000 per emergency medical service.

The application deadline is October 20, 2025. For more information, visit the Office of State Fire Commissioner Website.

Get a yellow dot for emergencies

In an emergency, every second matters. That’s why PennDOT has a Yellow Dot Program to help first responders quickly get your vital information after a crash.

By placing a yellow dot decal in your vehicle's rear window, first responders know to check your glove compartment for a booklet with information about medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts. Click here to learn more and request your kit.

Helping seniors connect with nature

Older Pennsylvanians can find it easier to connect with nature and improve their overall health with a new toolkit unveiled by three state agencies. The toolkit offers guides to bring nature indoors, strategies to overcome access barriers, research on the mental and physical health benefits of outdoor recreation, and more. It’s a collaborative effort between the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, and the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Learn more about the toolkit here.