Working for your health and quality of life!

PA Representative Darisha Parker banner image
 

 

Who holds the power in government?

 

Dear Megan,

Because of the Republican federal government shut down, The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture announced that there will be no SNAP benefits paid in November.

This will impact roughly 2 million Pennsylvanians – mostly hardworking families with children and seniors. This humanitarian crisis will have devastating effects not only on those families but on local businesses that accept SNAP benefits as well.

Without federal government funding, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program has delayed its application opening to Dec. 3, although please be aware this is subject to change. 

The WIC program will be unable to help mothers and children after Nov. 9.

The Republicans own this crisis – they control the U.S. House, Senate and White House – there is no excuse. PA House Democrats stand with Gov. Shapiro; it’s time for Republicans on the federal and state level to do their job.

If you need resources for food during this time – please see the images below and click this link for more options.

 

 

New federal work requirements for SNAP recipients

Thanks to Gov. Shapiro for working endlessly to protect Pennsylvanians. The governor is releasing $5 million in state funds to Feeding Pennsylvania for distribution through its statewide network of food banks and has signed a disaster emergency declaration to expedite relief.

 

Since 2015, Pennsylvania’s PASS program has connected local farms to food banks, delivering fresh food to families in need. Under Gov. Shapiro, $11 million has already strengthened the charitable food network. Additionally, a private sector “SNAP Emergency Relief Fund” has raised over $1 million to meet surging demand.

 

Residents can support local food banks by donating or volunteering at the Pennsylvania state chapter of Feeding America.

 

Check your voter registration status and get to the polls this November

Make sure you get out and vote on Nov. 4!  Click here to find your polling place or an official ballot drop box, see the image below for a list of city wide satellite election offices.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to cast a vote and make your voice heard! As a reminder, my office will be closed on Tuesday for the election.

 

Remember, elections happen more than just every four years! You can find your polling place by clicking here. 
 

The city has made access to voting easier by opening 10 satellite voting offices across the city. The closest ones to our neighborhood are the 8th and 9th Council Districts.

 

 

2 Years of Advocacy for Black Maternal Health

 

Video

On Monday I joined fellow members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus to celebrate our two-year anniversary of advocacy and legislation to address the ongoing healthcare crisis where too many mothers and infants are seriously ill or dying during pregnancy or in the first months following birth. 

Our Black Maternal Health Caucus was formed on Oct. 17, 2023, and quickly got to work on creating the MOMNIBUS legislative package. I am so proud of the work of this caucus and look forward to many more years of success.  There’s more work to be done!

 

Prince Hall Freemasons visit the State Capitol

I was honored to bring the Prince Hall Freemasons to visit the State Capitol in Harrisburg. They are the largest Black fraternity in the world and do amazing work in their communities to uplift and celebrate the resilience of Black Americans.

 

 

Voting for Your Health and Wellness

Prevention and detection are key to saving lives and sparing grief when it comes to cancer, which is why I enthusiastically voted for legislation (H.B. 1123) that would change the age when insurance companies must pay for colorectal cancer screening from age 50 to age 45 and update the tests covered by insurance.

And given the chaos surrounding federal immunization policies, I also voted to protect vaccine access in Pennsylvania (H.B. 1828) by allowing our Department of Health, with input by designated professional medical societies, to determine which immunizations must be covered by health insurance plans.

The bills are now in the hands of the Senate.

I’m thrilled to report that a Senate companion bill, which mirrored legislation I authored, is on its way to Gov. Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law. SB 748 would ensure our trade vessel pilots navigating waterways in the Delaware river remain safe and efficient with an adjusted fee for the pilots.

My House Resolution to make November Native American Heritage Month was adopted.

We should spread awareness about the history, contributions and tribulations of Native Americans and their enduring cultures, traditions, and contributions.

Because their heritage is not just part of our nation’s history — it’s the foundation.

 

Discussing Cannabis reform with Iron Mike

It was exciting to sit down with Mike Tyson – legendary boxer-turned-advocate for legal cannabis and exoneration of charges regarding cannabis. I learned a lot about how legalization could benefit Pennsylvania if done in a safe and controlled manner.

 

 

Black Leadership PA Neighborhood Fall Festival

Black Leadership PA is a non-profit group dedicated to increasing voter turnout amongst Black Pennsylvanians through education.

I’m featured with Monica of GPASS and Uplift Solutions, and the Office of Reentry.

 

 

West Chester University Golden Hour Social at the Capitol

After a long day of session, it was nice to spend time with West Chester University alumni and network with people working all over PA to make change happen.

 

 

Save the Date

Stay tuned for more details but save the date!

My colleague and Chair of the PA Legislative Black Caucus, Rep. Napoleon Nelson, will meet with the PA Human Relations Commission for a No Hate in our State Townhall.

Mark your calendar for Nov. 20 – the town hall starts at 6 p.m. at Batchelor Brothers & Jones 7112 N. Broad St.

 

 

Change Smoke Alarm Batteries This Weekend

Turn your clocks back this weekend and make sure your home is safe!

The Office of the State Fire Commissioner reminds Pennsylvanians to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at the beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time. Working alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by up to half.

Need a smoke alarm? You can request free smoke alarms through Philly311 (via the app or by phone), and the Fire Department will install them in your home. You should have one alarm on each floor of your home, including the basement. If you rent and your landlord has not provided smoke alarms, call Philly311 to report the violation.

Other free smoke alarm options are available from the American Red Cross here.

 

I want to bring state government resources to you! Please contact my office so we can visit your small business!

 

If you need assistance with any state government-related program, please don't hesitate to contact my office.

 

Sincerely,

 

Pennsylvania State Capitol

116 A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120-2198

(717) 787-7727

District Office

1335 West Tabor Road, Suite 109
Philadelphia, PA 19141
(215) 849-6426

 

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