Urban Agriculture is thriving in Philly

Rep. Darisha Parker July 21, 2025 | 9:49 AM

PA Representative Darisha Parker banner image

I hope you and your family are having a wonderful summer! It’s been so hot – make sure you know how to find relief from hot weather during Code Red Alerts.

The PA House again was in session this Monday when we passed a portion of the state budget – a General Appropriations bill to fund core operations of government.

While we still are negotiating a final budget, this General Appropriations bill is a vital piece of the budget that will keep the state running while my colleagues and I in the PA House Democrats continue to fight for the priorities that matter most to you.

Priorities like funding SEPTA, investing in public education for both students and teachers, and creating solid pathways to secure and well-paying careers.

My colleagues and I from the PA House Dems did our constitutional duty as lawmakers – we produced a state budget. Now it’s time for the Senate to act on funding mass transit across PA – so people can get to work, school and to their important medical appointments.

Click here to contact the PA Senate.

Sincerely,

What a great day for Urban Agriculture

I participated in the statewide Urban Agriculture Tour, they stopped at Hansberry Garden & Nature Center on Wayne Ave.

It was nice to show Sec. of Agriculture Russell Redding, Sec. of Labor & Industry Nancy Walker and Secretary of State Al Schmidt the amazing work happening in Urban Gardening thanks to partnerships like Hansberry & the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

I met with members of Lambda Kappa Omega Sorority and we had a great discussion on how to be advocates for our neighborhoods and civically engaged.

My District Office staff came to visit me in Harrisburg this week! It was bittersweet as my amazing intern Dylan will be leaving us soon to continue her academic journey at North Carolina A&T State University. Proud to have you on Team Parker and I can’t wait to see everything you accomplish.

Thanks for all of your hard work and dedication, Dylan – we wish you the best of luck!

Small Business Funding & Support Opportunities in Philly

If you or someone you know has or is considering starting a small business in Philly there is help and some funding that could be available to qualifying businesses.

The Mayor’s Business Action Team within the Department of Commerce offers personalized guidance for any business in Philadelphia who wants to be connected to resources and programs.

They can be contacted by emailing business@phila.gov or calling (215) 683-2100 or click here for more information.

LIUNA Local 393 Apprenticeship Applications Are Now OPEN!

No tuition. Paid training. Union benefits.

This is your chance to start a real career in construction with Local 393.

Apply online the first Tuesday of every month at www.illaborers.org.

Programs, Resources and Events

The Youth Justice Project connects youth ages 16-25 to lawyers at Community Legal Services and Philadelphia Legal Assistance. Click here for more information.

The Please Touch Museum is offering free admission on July 27 and August 24 for their Community Days. Bring your child to a FREE day of fun and learning at the Please Touch Museum.