November 7 email: Stronger Together: Local & Capitol Highlights This Fall

Rep. Melissa Cerrato November 7, 2025

Dear Friends,

To everyone who worked or volunteered at the polls this week, thank you. Your dedication, long hours, and commitment to our democratic process made this election possible. You are the heart of our civic system, and we are truly grateful.

I am absolutely thrilled that so many voters came out to ensure their voices were heard and their votes counted. Your participation is what keeps our democracy strong and vibrant.

Congratulations to all of our newly elected and reelected leaders throughout the 151st District. Your service reflects the trust our community places in you, and we look forward to the work ahead.

To every candidate who had the courage to run, whether you were successful or not, thank you. Putting yourself forward to serve takes strength, vision, and a deep love for our community. Your willingness to step up speaks volumes about your character and your care for the people around you.

This election was a powerful reminder that democracy thrives when we all show up. Here is to continued engagement, respectful dialogue, and a shared commitment to building a better future together.

As we move deeper into the fall season, I’ve been reflecting on how quickly the weeks are flying by, even as the days themselves feel long and full. It has been a busy time both here in the district and in Harrisburg, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to serve and connect with our community.

Below are some highlights from the past few weeks:

??? In the District

Supporting Our Local Police

I was honored to join the Ambler Borough Police Department for the official ribbon cutting of their brand-new police vehicle. This addition will help the department continue its outstanding work keeping our community safe. I am truly grateful to the dedicated officers of Ambler Borough PD for their service and commitment. While I was glad to play a small role in helping secure the grant that made this possible, the real credit belongs to the men and women who protect and serve every day. Congratulations to the department and thank you for all you do for our community.

Period Action Day with First Lady Lori Shapiro

It was a privilege to welcome First Lady Lori Shapiro to our district to highlight Period Action Day with an afternoon of volunteerism at Mitzvah Circle. Together with Senator Maria Collett, Rep. Darisha Parker, and incredible volunteers, we packed essential supplies to support women and families in need. Access to period products is a matter of dignity and health, and I am proud to stand alongside community partners who are working every day to break down barriers and ensure no one is left behind. Thank you to Mitzvah Circle for your tireless commitment and to all who joined in this important effort.

??? Harrisburg Updates

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a time to honor survivors, support those in treatment, and recommit ourselves to advancing care and early detection. My intern Jack and I joined advocates, survivors, and community leaders at the Capitol to turn the fountain pink and to stand together at a press conference hosted by Horsham resident and founder of the PA Breast Cancer Coalition, Pat Halpin-Murphy. We discussed the importance of further legislative advancements to improve diagnosis and treatment so that every Pennsylvanian has access to the care they need.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October was also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It is a time to honor survivors, remember those we have lost, and renew our dedication to building a future where everyone can live free from fear and abuse. I will always stand with advocates, survivors, and families in this fight. Together, we can ensure that support, resources, and hope are always within reach.

Recognizing Leaders and Community Builders

The House proudly passed a resolution to recognize Taekwondo Grandmasters Appreciation Day in Pennsylvania. We were honored to welcome Grandmaster Yang and his fellow Grandmasters to the Capitol as we celebrated their dedication, discipline, and lifelong commitment to teaching and inspiring others.

Additionally, the House recognized October 3 as Sharon Cullen Day in Pennsylvania through House Resolution 321, introduced by my colleague Representative Greg Scott. Sharon Cullen, together with her husband, Sean, founded the Montgomery County Hero Fund in 2012 out of their deep commitment to helping others. Sharon passed away earlier this year after a battle with cancer. We were honored to stand with her family to express our gratitude for her extraordinary contributions and to ensure that her legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire us all.

A Season of Giving: Standing Together Against Hunger and for Our Children

Last week, I stood with my colleagues and local leaders to celebrate a major step forward in our fight against hunger: a $500,000 county investment in our area’s food pantries. This funding is a lifeline for many, but it is only the beginning.

Food insecurity is not a distant issue – it’s here, in every corner of our Commonwealth. With the recent loss of federal SNAP funding, more families are struggling to put food on the table. Hunger does not discriminate. It affects working parents, seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities. This is not a partisan issue, it’s a human one.

That’s why I’m calling on our community to take action. Our office is continuing to serve as a drop-off location for food donations. I personally delivered the first load, but this effort needs all of us. Every can, every box, every contribution helps.

And as we work to feed our neighbors, we’re also working to bring joy to our children this holiday season. Our annual Holiday Gift Drive is underway, and we’re inviting you to help make the season magical for local kids. Each child has shared their “big wishes,” clothing sizes, and favorite colors. You can:

Choose a child from our list
Shop for their wish list and/or clothing needs
Drop off unwrapped gifts at 605 Horsham Rd, Horsham PA 19044 by November 28th

Whether it’s a warm meal or a wrapped gift, your generosity can make a real difference. Let’s come together to ensure no family goes hungry, and no child feels forgotten this holiday season.

Together, we can turn compassion into action.

As always, I am grateful for the chance to represent you and to work together toward a stronger, safer, and more compassionate community. Thank you for staying engaged, and I look forward to sharing more updates with you soon.

Upcoming Events

?? Join Us for the Third Annual Fall Senior Fair! ??

This event is dedicated to senior citizen living and wellbeing.

Stay informed about services and initiatives in the 151st Legislative District. Learn more about programs for seniors, such as:

PACE/PACENET: Prescription assistance programs to help seniors afford their medications.
Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program: Financial assistance for eligible seniors to help with property taxes or rent.
SEPTA Key Card
And so much more…

Have any questions? Contact our office at 267-282-6695.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect and learn more! ??

SEPTA Senior Key Card Event

We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming SEPTA Senior Key Card Event, created to make it easier for residents who may not be able to visit our office during the workweek to apply for or renew their Senior Key Card.

Through our continued partnership with SEPTA, we’re proud to provide this convenient opportunity for seniors in our community. The SEPTA Senior Key Card is available to residents aged 65 and older and offers free rides on all SEPTA transit routes, including buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail. Seniors traveling to Delaware or New Jersey can also enjoy a 50% discount on fares when using their Senior Key Card.

Important Notes:

SEPTA currently takes about four weeks to process and mail new cards.
If you prefer not to wait, you may renew your pass directly at SEPTA Headquarters, 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, by scheduling an appointment at (215) 580-7145.
Please note that duplicate cards cannot be issued at this event. To replace a lost or stolen card, you must mail a $5 check or money order payable to SEPTA to: SEPTA, P.O. Box 824833, Philadelphia, PA 19182.

We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to secure or renew your Senior Key Card in a convenient and supportive setting. Please spread the word to friends and neighbors who may benefit from this program.