Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El | News Center

News Center

Smith-Wade-El celebrates release of Pa.’s first comprehensive housing plan

(Feb 13, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

LANCASTER, Feb. 13 – A longtime advocate for housing rights of Pennsylvanians, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, issued the following statement about the release of Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive Housing Action Plan to address the commonwealth’s housing crisis. "Housing is a human right and a matter of justice, and the Shapiro administration’s housing action plan will help working Pennsylvanians achieve the American dream — a home of their own — by building more housing and cutting red tape to make housing more affordable. “The Housing Action Plan strongly supports renters’ rights, and I am grateful that it includes my legislative plan to seal eviction records for people who were not actually evicted. This step will ensure fair housing access for many and protect whole communities in Pennsylvania. “I am also glad that the Housing Action Plan addresses the legacies of racism in homeownership in Pennsylvania that is the primary driver for the racial wealth divide. While White homeownership was 72% in 2023 nationally, the homeownership rate for people of color was 45% . As homeownership is the biggest key to wealth accumulation , the Housing Action Plan to close the equity gap for minority homeownership by 25% will in turn also reduce the racial wealth divide in Pennsylvania. “Pennsylvania’s families deserve access to safe and affordable housing, and this Housing Action Plan Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El to Hold two Student Town Halls at Local Elementary Schools

(Feb 11, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

LANCASTER, Feb. 11 – A strong advocate for civic education, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, said he believes teaching civics equips youth to become informed and engaged members of a democratic society. He will host two student civic town halls in Lancaster this February. The first town hall will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20 in the cafeteria of Washington Elementary School, 545 S. Ann St. Smith-Wade-El will be joined by Lancaster Mayor Jaime Arroyo and School District of Lancaster Board Vice President Katrina Holmes. The second town hall will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26 at Smith-Wade-El Elementary School, 910 Hamilton Park Drive. Smith-Wade-El will be joined by School District of Lancaster Board President Jennifer Eaton. These events will give students the chance to learn about state government, share their ideas for improving their communities, and participate in a Q&A session with Smith-Wade-El. “A truly democratic society relies on an informed and engaged citizenry, and civic education must begin early,” Smith-Wade-El said. “As we approach the United States’ 250th birthday and reflect on Pennsylvania’s pivotal role in its founding, now is the perfect time to teach our students about their rights and responsibilities as American citizens.” The town halls follow Smith-Wade-El's recent participation in Hamilton Elementary School's Celebration Assembly on Wednesday, Read more

 

Grant Memo: Transportation, Parks, Pedestrian Safety, School Mental Health, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Feb 11, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: All-Terrain Vehicle/Snowmobile Grants Who May Apply: County and municipal governments, non-profits, for-profits Use: Planning, acquisition of land, development, rehabilitation, maintenance of ATV or snowmobile trails and facilities, purchase of equipment, and educational programs related to the use of ATVs or snowmobiles Funds: Grants will range between $25,000 and $1,000,000 Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 More information: DCNR Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic development organizations, redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities, industrial development agencies, and for-profit organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and approved on a quarterly basis More information: DCED Website Department of Community and Economic Development: Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant Who May Apply: Technical and trade schools, school districts, post-secondary academic institutions, workforce investment boards, economic development organizations, and non-profit organizations. For-profit Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El, Rivera announce $1.2 million in state funds for bicycle and pedestrian improvements

(Feb 10, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

LANCASTER, Feb. 10 –State Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El and Nikki Rivera, both D-Lancaster, today announced that their districts will receive over $1.2 million in state funding to make critical bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements in the City of Lancaster and in Manheim Township. The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Automated Red-Light Enforcement (ARLE) program. Established in 2010, ARLE funds improvements at signalized intersections and is primarily supported by fines from red-light violations at 38 intersections currently operational in the commonwealth. The program is designed to reduce congestion, enhance mobility, and improve safety at high-traffic intersections. In Smith-Wade-El’s district, the City of Lancaster will receive $974,544 to improve bicycle safety by installing a bi-directional/two-way separated bike lane on the south and east side on the roadway from South Queen Street to East King Street. “I am very excited to see the City of Lancaster receive this significant investment in bicycle safety,” said Smith-Wade-El. “As someone who learned ride a bike at the old age of 29, I love the freedom and the whole new way of seeing the city that I experience when I’m riding a bike. This investment in our city will make Lancaster a healthier place to live thanks to more people engaging in this heart-healthy activity instead of driving a car, which increases air pollution and traffic Read more

 

Scholarships

(Feb 09, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

Grow PA Grant Program accepting 2026-27 applications The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency is accepting applications for the Grow PA Grant Program for the 2026–27 school year. The program is designed to expand opportunities for Pennsylvania’s workforce by helping students pursue training and education in high demand occupations. Qualified students may receive up to $5,000 per year, with the grant renewable for up to four years. If you’re planning to pursue post-secondary education or workforce training, this program can help make those opportunities more affordable. Deadline for applications is April 15, 2026. The PA House of Representatives Scholarship Program The PA House of Representatives Scholarship Program awards two four-year scholarships to high school seniors each year. Each scholarship covers the cost of one semester of tuition at the State System of Higher Education for each of the four years. Applications are due April 15. Anti-Litter Photo Contest The Pennsylvania Resources Council is holding the Gene Capaldi Lens on Litter Photo Contest to bring awareness to litter in PA. Contestants may enter up to five original images that highlight an anti-litter message. The contest is specifically open to amateur photographers, who can send their photos to the Pennsylvania Resources Council. Top prize is $500, second is $250, and third is $100. Submit your photos here . Contest dates run from Read more

 

Call to Action: Help Our Trans Kids

(Feb 09, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

Our LGBTQ+ population deserves and has always deserved the same level of critical healthcare as all other populations of people in our communities. During the past twelve months, the current federal government has targeted and punished specific populations of people in the USA through cuts, bans, and cruelty. The federal government has proposed two new rules that could make it virtually impossible for transgender youth to get the health care they need. These proposed rules: Block Medicaid and CHIP funding for gender-affirming care for transgender youth; and Punish hospitals and providers that offer this care by threatening their ability to participate in Medicare and Medicaid altogether. If finalized, these rules would block hospitals and doctors from providing gender-affirming care to youth across the country. They would also take away public funding like Medicaid and CHIP from kids who rely on that coverage to access best practice, medically necessary care. Furthermore, not only would these proposals restrict youths’ access to gender-affirming care in the Medicaid and CHIP systems, but because almost every hospital in America receives this funding alongside Medicare, every one of them would have to cut off access to that care to continue receiving federal funding for other patients. This will impact all families seeking care for their trans children, regardless if they are doing so with public insurance, private insurance, or their own funds. Read more

 

My Thoughts on Gov. Shapiro's 2026-2027 Budget

(Feb 06, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

Feb. 5, 2026 Read more

 

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Feb 03, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commonwealth Financing Authority: Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Councils of Governments, Authorized Organizations, Institutions of Higher Education, Watershed Organizations, for profit businesses. Use: Planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects. Funds: Grant requests shall not exceed $250,000. Application Deadline: May 31, 2026 More information: CFA Website Commonwealth Financing Authority: Baseline Water Quality Data Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Councils of Governments, Authorized Organizations, Institutions of Higher Education, Watershed Organizations, for profit businesses. Use: Eligible projects are those that will use accepted scientific principles and practices for water sample collection and analysis to document existing groundwater quality conditions on private water supplies. Funds: Grant requests shall not exceed $250,000. Application Deadline: May 31, 2026 More information: CFA Website Commonwealth Financing Authority: Flood Mitigation Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Councils of Governments, Authorized Organizations, Institutions of Higher Education, Watershed Organizations, for profit businesses. Use: Eligible projects are to assist with flood Read more

 

Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus leaders recognize centennial Black History Month

(Jan 30, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 – The executive team of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus have issued the following statement recognizing February 2026 as the 100th annual Black History Month. Black History Month was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson in his work founding the group now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The celebration, formerly known as Negro History Week, expanded into Black History Month in 1970, with the first federal recognition coming from President Gerald Ford in 1976. “This year marks not only the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, but also the 250th anniversary of our nation,” said Rep. Napoleon Nelson, chair of the PLBC. “Black history is American history, and it has made our nation what it is today. Especially now, it is important that we reflect on our history and use it to shape a more just future for people of color across Pennsylvania and our nation.” “Considering no one can erase what we have built, we cannot let one person’s actions define our present, erase our past and preserve our future. We will do that,” said Rep. Darisha Parker , vice chair of the PLBC. “And we will continue to do so by strategically supporting, uplifting and empowering Black communities. No weapon formed against us shall prosper.” “In this perilous time, it has never been more clear that preserving and Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El to host Free Stuff to Do Fair Jan 31; Event will feature over 55 classes, clubs, hobbies, and activities

(Jan 27, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

LANCASTER, Jan. 27 — State Rep. Izzy Smith-Wade-El and the School District of Lancaster will host the second annual Stuff to Do Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 31. The event aims to help community members find a class, hobby, club, or activity to join. Fifty-five community organizations will host more than 50 tables, showcasing a wide range of activities and interests. The event is ideal for anyone looking to try something new, explore the many activities Lancaster has to offer, or simply enjoy a community fair. While the Stuff to Do Fair is primarily geared toward adults, children are welcome to attend. This year’s fair will feature more than 50 tables to browse, highlighting everything from book clubs and dance classes to sports, volunteering, nature, technology, and more. Attendees will also be able to enjoy live demonstrations of select activities, including dance, improv comedy, karate, and more. WHERE: Washington Elementary School, 545 S. Ann St., Lancaster, PA WHEN: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31 Read more

 

Khan and colleagues introduce resolution demanding accountability in DHS and ICE enforcement

(Jan 25, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

State Rep. Tarik Khan, D–Philadelphia, joined by colleagues in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, today introduced a resolution urging Congress to withhold additional federal appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) until meaningful accountability and safety reforms are enacted.The resolution comes in the wake of the killing of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis in January 2026, just weeks after another U.S. citizen, Renee Nicole Good, was shot and killed during federal immigration enforcement operations in the same city. Read more

 

Community Parks, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jan 22, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) Who May Apply: County or Municipal Government, Higher Educational Institution, Other Educational Institution, Non-profit with 501(c)3 IRS Status and Non-profit with PA Bureau of Charitable Organizations Status. Use: Park rehabilitation and development, recreation and conservation planning, land acquisition and conservation, trail projects, river conservation and development, and community and watershed forestry. Funds: The total grant awards vary based on state and federal funding sources, with the program awarding approximately $50 million for projects each year. Individual grant amounts also vary, with typical awards ranging from $50,000 - $500,000. Application Deadline: April 30, 2026 More information: DCNR Website Liquor Control Board: Alcohol Education Grant Program Who May Apply: School districts and institutions of higher education (including technical, trade, and post-secondary establishments), community organizations, municipal police departments, municipal officials/representatives, and nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Use: To fund programs that discourage and reduce underage and dangerous drinking and promote a message of responsible alcohol consumption by those of legal drinking age. Funds: The grant cycle is for two years, from July 2026 through June Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El: $600K in state funding awarded for infrastructure improvements

(Jan 22, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

LANCASTER, Jan. 23 – The Commonwealth Financing Authority has approved $600,000 in Multimodal Transportation Funding to Garman Builders to address existing queuing and safety issues present along PA Route 741 (Millersville Pike) and PA Route 999 (Millersville Road), state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced today. The funding will be used for the following improvements to Routes 741 and 999 in Millersville: Construction of a roundabout along PA Route 741(Millersville Road). Traffic signal upgrades, including a northbound left turn and signal timing. Construction of an 8-foot-wide multi-purpose trail along PA Route 741 and PA Route 999. Creation of a bus stop, including a shelter, bench and streetlight. Repaving, striping and signage. “This strategic state investment helps us make Routes 741 and 999 in Millersville safer for our residents—whether they are traveling by car, bicycle or on foot—and will help offset some of the cost for local taxpayers. I am grateful to the CFA and the Shapiro administration for following our guidance about the project’s importance for our area,” Smith-Wade-El said. The MTF, administered by the CFA, provides grants between $100,000 and $3 million to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. Funds Read more

 

Pennie’s Deadline Extended to 1/31, New online tool for SNAP recipients, PA Turnpike 2026 Toll Increase

(Jan 16, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

Pennie’s Deadline Extended to 1/31, New online tool for SNAP recipients, PA Turnpike 2026 Toll Increase Read more

 

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jan 09, 2026) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Transportation: Multimodal Transportation Funding (MTF) Who May Apply: Municipalities, councils of government, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, ports and rail freight entities. Use: To improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. Funds: The MTF requires a 30% match of the amount award. Awards are available for projects with a minimum cost of $100,000 and no more than $3,000,000. Application Deadline: February 13, 2026 More information: PennDOT website Commonwealth Financing Authority: Public School Facility Improvement Grant Who May Apply: School entities, defined as a school district or an area career and technical school. Use: Facility improvement projects, including but not limited to roof repair/replacement, heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, plumbing systems, window repair/replacement, health and safety upgrades, and accessibility projects. Funds: $100 million in total funding is available. Grant requests shall not exceed $5 million per eligible improvement project. School entities may submit more than one application, but no school entity shall receive more than 20% of the total funding available. Application Deadline: March 13, 2026 More information: CFA Website Department of Military and Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El: Nearly $824K secured for Lancaster City traffic signal improvements

(Dec 30, 2025) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

LANCASTER, Dec. 30 – Smoother, safer traffic flow is coming to Lancaster thanks to nearly $824,000 in grant funding from the state Transportation Department, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced today. Read more

 

$6.5 Million in State Investments in Our Districts

(Dec 19, 2025) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

$6.5 million in state investments in 49th, legislative update and more. Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District

(Dec 19, 2025) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Violence Intervention & Prevention (VIP) + Building Opportunities for Out-of-School Time (BOOST) Combined Grant Program Who May Apply: Community-based nonprofit with 501(c)(3) status (VIP or BOOST), municipality, county, or district attorney’s office (VIP only), institute of higher education (VIP only), school district or career and technical center (BOOST only), library (BOOST only). Use: VIP + BOOST funds can be used to support a wide range of eligible activities designed to reduce and respond to community violence. Funds: Approximately $60 million in state funding is available, with no less than $11.5 million designated for BOOST funding. Application Deadline: January 26, 2026 More information: PCCD website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Statewide Building Opportunities for Out-of-School Time (BOOST) Program Who May Apply: Statewide youth-serving nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(4) status. Use: Funds for the proposed program may be used to support upstream prevention initiatives focused on school-age youth who are at risk, such as mentoring and OST programs. Funds: No less than $11.5 million in state VIP funding has been designated for BOOST funding. Application Deadline: January 26, 2026 More information: PCCD Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Safety and Mental Health Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El brings home nearly $1.8 million in state grants for community improvement projects, local museum funding

(Dec 18, 2025) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

HARRISBURG, Dec. 18 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D–Lancaster, announced today that nearly $1.8 million in state funding has been awarded for community improvement projects and local museums across his legislative district. Smith-Wade-El advocated for grants awarded through the statewide Local Share Account, which is funded by the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, as well as the Act 13 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, which supports the development, rehabilitation, and improvement of public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and river conservation projects. “This state funding will make a real difference in our community -- from expanding affordable housing to creating more community centers and improving our trailways,” Smith-Wade-El said. “I am honored to have helped bring this funding home to support these worthy projects. I want to thank my fellow legislators who also advocated for these grants and give a huge shout-out to the many dedicated people who spearheaded these initiatives to improve their neighbors’ lives. Compassion and collaboration are what community is all about.” Projects awarded LSA funding in Smith-Wade-El’s legislative district include: 250,000 to Lancaster City/Chestnut Housing Corp. to transform a long-vacant historical building into 1,100 square feet of office/meeting space and 11 new affordable apartments called the Dinah's Hill Apartments. Read more

 

Curry, Smith-Wade-El recognize growing youth homelessness crisis with resolution

(Dec 16, 2025) Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El

“We’re seeing more and more young people pushed into homelessness through circumstances far beyond their control,” Curry said. “When you’re a child, your safety and stability depend on others and when that support isn’t there, options quickly disappear." Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El celebrates release of Pa.’s first comprehensive housing plan
Feb 13, 2026

Smith-Wade-El to Hold two Student Town Halls at Local Elementary Schools
Feb 11, 2026

Grant Memo: Transportation, Parks, Pedestrian Safety, School Mental Health, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 11, 2026

Smith-Wade-El, Rivera announce $1.2 million in state funds for bicycle and pedestrian improvements
Feb 10, 2026

Scholarships
Feb 09, 2026

Call to Action: Help Our Trans Kids
Feb 09, 2026

My Thoughts on Gov. Shapiro's 2026-2027 Budget
Feb 06, 2026

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 03, 2026

Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus leaders recognize centennial Black History Month
Jan 30, 2026

Smith-Wade-El to host Free Stuff to Do Fair Jan 31; Event will feature over 55 classes, clubs, hobbies, and activities
Jan 27, 2026

Khan and colleagues introduce resolution demanding accountability in DHS and ICE enforcement
Jan 25, 2026

Community Parks, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 22, 2026

Smith-Wade-El: $600K in state funding awarded for infrastructure improvements
Jan 22, 2026

Pennie’s Deadline Extended to 1/31, New online tool for SNAP recipients, PA Turnpike 2026 Toll Increase
Jan 16, 2026

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 09, 2026

Smith-Wade-El: Nearly $824K secured for Lancaster City traffic signal improvements
Dec 30, 2025

$6.5 Million in State Investments in Our Districts
Dec 19, 2025

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District
Dec 19, 2025

Smith-Wade-El brings home nearly $1.8 million in state grants for community improvement projects, local museum funding
Dec 18, 2025

Curry, Smith-Wade-El recognize growing youth homelessness crisis with resolution
Dec 16, 2025