A Week of Gratitude, Community, and Helpful Reminders

Rep. Melissa Cerrato January 23, 2026 | 9:34 AM

Dear Friends,

I hope this message finds you well and settling comfortably into the new year while staying safe and warm. I have been reflecting a lot this week because I am officially one year older and with every year, I feel myself growing more grounded, more experienced, and a little wiser than before. Birthdays have a way of nudging you to look back with gratitude and look forward with fresh energy, and I am feeling plenty of both today.

These moments always make me pause and appreciate the people and the purpose that fill my days. I am especially thankful for the chance to serve this community. Every conversation, every moment of support, and every shared effort to strengthen our district truly means the world to me. Thank you for being part of this journey in this work with you and for you. Here is to another year of learning, growing, and doing good work together… wrinkles optional, wisdom guaranteed.

?? Flower Show and SEPTA Key Card Reminder

If you have ever visited our office, you already know how much we love our plants and flowers. So when the Flower Show comes to town, we get just as excited as many of you.

Each year, we notice that many seniors wait until the very last minute to apply for their SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card so they can travel to the show. While we are always happy to help, the card does take a little time to arrive.

If you are planning to attend the Flower Show, we encourage you to stop in soon to apply for your SEPTA Key Card. This will ensure you receive it in time for your visit. We look forward to helping you get ready for a wonderful day among the blooms.

?? Reminder: 2024 School Rebate Assistance

As we are beginning to assist with your 2025 PA1000 Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications, I want to remind everyone that we can still help you file your 2024 school district rebate as well.

If you already qualified for and received the state rebate, you are eligible to complete the school district rebate, too, and we are happy to guide you through the process.

If you still need to file for your 2024 school district rebate, this is a great time to stop by the office so we can make sure everything is submitted correctly. We are here to help.

?? LIHEAP Applications Are Now Open in Pennsylvania

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is officially accepting applications for the new season. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps eligible households manage the cost of heating their homes, prevent utility shutoffs, and respond to energy emergencies.

What LIHEAP Can Help With

Cash grants to help pay heating bills
Crisis grants for households facing a heating emergency
One-time payments sent directly to your utility or fuel provider
Grants ranging from $200 to $1,000, depending on income, household size, fuel type, and county
Crisis grants up to $1,000 for emergency situations

Pennsylvania Eligibility Guidelines

Income Eligibility

Eligibility is set at 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Applicants may use either the previous month’s gross income or the past 12 months, whichever is more beneficial.

Other Requirements

Applicants must be responsible for paying home heating costs.
Both renters and homeowners may qualify.
Households in immediate danger of losing heat may qualify for crisis assistance.

Program Dates

Heating assistance season typically runs November through April.
Crisis assistance is available during the same period.

Need Help Applying? We Can Assist You.

If you or someone you know may benefit from LIHEAP, our office is here to help. We can assist with:

Completing the application
Understanding eligibility
Gathering required documents
Navigating the COMPASS online application system

No one should struggle to stay warm during Pennsylvania’s winter months. We are ready to support you.

Upcoming Events

?? Join Us to Stop Scams Before They Start! ???

We're teaming up with the Office of the PA Attorney General for a powerful Scam Prevention Event and you're invited!

Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud, identity theft, and deceptive practices. Free resources, expert tips, and real-time support available!

Let’s stand together for a safer Pennsylvania. ??

?? Calling all dog owners in the 151st! ??

Join me and Montgomery County Treasurer Jason Salus for a tail-wagging good time at our Dog Licensing Event!

Whether your pup is a seasoned pro or a new addition to the family, this is your chance to get them licensed, meet fellow pet owners, and let us smother your fur baby with a bit of love.

Let’s make it a pawsitive morning together! ????

Blood Drive

The Ukrainian American Sports Center is hosting a Blood Drive on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 2 PM to 7 PM at 1 Lower State Road, North Wales, PA.

Blood donations are critical for people undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, trauma care, and unexpected emergencies. By donating, you help ensure hospitals have the lifesaving blood supply they rely on every day.

Blood Drive Details

?? Ukrainian American Sports Center

?? Monday, February 23, 2026

? 2 PM to 7 PM

?? 1 Lower State Road, North Wales, PA

?? Make an appointment

Visit RedCrossBlood.org and use sponsor code uasc.

Or call 1 800 RED CROSS (1 800 733 2767)