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Dear Neighbor & Estimado Vecino,
As always, here is some information I hope you find useful.
For Spanish readers, please read the full Spanish-language version of this email here.
Para los lectores en español, lea una versión completa de este boletín electrónico en su idioma aquí. Como siempre, aquí les presento información que espero pueda ser de utilidad. Y no olvides visitar mi página oficial para mantenerte informado. También puede verificar sus preferencias para asegurarse de que está registrado para recibir mis correos electrónicos.
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$348,500 Grant Awarded to Our Community for
Schuylkill River Trail Expansion
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The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, through its Community Conservation Partnership Program, has awarded a $348,500 grant to our community for improvements to the Schuylkill River Trail.
This funding will support the construction of approximately 0.13 miles of new trail from Riverfront Drive to Front and Penn Streets, along with lighting, ADA-accessible features, landscaping, project signage, and other site improvements. These upgrades will make the trail safer, more accessible, and more welcoming for everyone.
I’m proud to continue bringing resources to our community and advocating to strengthen our parks and green spaces, helping create places where families and neighbors can connect, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors.
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Exciting Opportunities for Pennsylvania Students!
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Pennsylvania students can apply for two amazing programs this year:
1.- Summer 2026 Pennsylvania House Legislative Fellowship Program – Work in the State Capitol, gain hands-on experience drafting legislation, attend meetings with public officials, earn compensation or college credit, and explore historic Commonwealth sites. Open to undergraduate juniors/seniors, graduate, and law students with a 3.0+ GPA. Applications due March 2, 2026. Apply at www.pahousefellowship.us or email pahousefellowship@pabmc.net
2.- America250PA Scholarships – In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Pennsylvania high school seniors attending college in-state can apply for one of 25 scholarships worth $10,000 each. Applications open September 16, 2025 through January 31, 2026.
Don’t miss these incredible opportunities to gain experience, recognition, and financial support!
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There’s still time to get health coverage for 2026!
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If you’re searching for health coverage, take advantage of Pennie’s Special Enrollment extension, with a final deadline of January 31. This is your last chance to enroll for coverage starting February 1. Pennie makes health coverage simple by offering expert help and exclusive financial savings, making coverage more affordable than ever. Learn more at pennie.com.
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$7,500 in grant funding for Alvernia University project
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I’m glad to share that Alvernia University’s Seeds of Discovery: Raised Bed Pilot Project has been awarded a $7,500 grant through the Pennsylvania Agriculture and Youth Grant Program. I’m especially pleased to see Alvernia among this year’s recipients because of the important role it plays in educating and supporting young people in our community.
Created through the 2019 PA Farm Bill, this grant program supports projects focused on agricultural education, workforce development opportunities such as seminars and field trips, and agricultural safety training.
This funding will strengthen the meaningful work of the Seeds of Discovery pilot project and help provide youth with valuable agricultural knowledge, leadership development, and hands-on learning experiences.
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Plan Safer Winter Travel in Pennsylvania with 511PA
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Stay up to date on winter weather in Pennsylvania with 511PA.com or the 511PA app. Access real-time travel conditions, vehicle restrictions, and custom alerts.
Learn more at 511pa.com/about/mobileapp.
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Read My End-of-Year Newsletter
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Check out the End-of-Year edition of my newsletter for highlights and updates on how I’m serving our community. This year, I focused on education, housing, food security, senior support, and transportation for Reading and Berks County, and I look forward to a strong 2026 of progress for our city and state.
As always, I’m here to help, stop by my office or call with any questions or for the latest state resources. Click here to read the newsletter.
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The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is now accepting applications to help people stay warm and safe in their homes.
Eligible households can receive a one-time cash grant of $200 to $1,000, based on household size, income, and fuel type. Households facing a heating emergency—such as low fuel or a broken heating system—may also qualify for a crisis grant for additional support. Grants are paid directly to your utility or fuel provider.
You can apply online via PA Compass, in person at the Berks County Assistance Office located at the Reading State Office Building at 625 Cherry St., or by calling
the LIHEAP hotline at 610-736-4228 or toll free at 866-215-3911.
If you need urgent assistance, call 211 or visit pa-navigate.org for additional resources and support.
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Discover Available State Programs and Services
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Call us at 610-376-1529 or visit my district office to learn about state programs and services and get the support your family needs!
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Are You Part of the 127th District? Find Out Today!
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If you recently moved or are unsure of who represents you in government, I'm here to help! I am proud to represent the welcoming communities of the 127th District, which includes parts of Reading and Cumru Township, along with the boroughs of Kenhorst and Shillington.
Find your district and access support using the official 'Find My Legislator' tool: palegis.us/find-my-legislator.
My district office is your resource for state-related matters, including legislation, state programs, and navigating agencies. Please call us at 610-376-1529—we're here to help you and your family get the support you need.
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Whether you’re involved in agriculture, environmental projects, public safety, redevelopment, transportation, or other areas, there are numerous grants available that could support your work. Check out this link for the latest information on available grants across these fields and more. Take advantage of these opportunities and make a positive impact in our community!
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My Office Has You Covered!
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In addition to helping people navigate and apply for many government programs, my office also now offers free notary services! My goal is to make sure you and your family have the help you need, right here in Reading.
?? Call us at 610-376-1529 to schedule your appointment or learn more.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
32-A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 787-3525
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District Office
645 Penn St., 5th Floor
Reading, PA 19601
(610) 376-1529
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