SNAP replacement for storm-impacted residents; Senior Farmers Market vouchers; veterans services – and more!

Rep. Abigail Salisbury May 6, 2025 | 12:16 PM

SNAP recipients who lost food in storms may be eligible

for replacement benefits

If you receive SNAP benefits and lost food because of last week’s severe storms, please be aware that you may be eligible for replacement benefits. Please contact our office for help applying.

In other storm-related news, our community has been pulling together in the best possible ways, with neighbors helping neighbors and local nonprofit leaders like Wilkinsburg Food Pantry’s Ruth Kittner (below left) working tirelessly to connect people with resources.

As my staff and I continue working to help residents recover, please contact us to see how we can help.

Around the district

Last week, I joined PA House Appropriations Committee Chair Jordan Harris and colleagues from the Allegheny County Delegation to brief residents on how the proposed 2025-26 state budget will impact our community. We received a lot of insightful questions and comments from residents. If you were unable to attend, you can watch a recap of the briefing here and read details about the 2025-26 state budget here.

I also joined my delegation colleagues to tour the University of Pittsburgh Department of Medicine’s laboratories. It was exciting to see the cutting-edge work Pitt’s scientists and physicians are doing to advance medicine and keep our region competitive in biomedical research.

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers

will be distributed June 10

Our area senior centers will distribute Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers on Tuesday, June 10. Please be aware that vouchers will be distributed in person only, on a first-come, first-served basis. You can learn more here.

A word about REAL ID and what it means for you

This is a reminder that beginning Wednesday, May 7, you will need to present either a REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or photo identification card (or an approved alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID) to board a commercial domestic flight, visit a military base, or access federal facilities that require identification at the door. You do not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, access hospitals or federal courts, visit the post office, or apply for or receive federal benefits.

You can upgrade to a REAL ID at any time, including after May 7. Visit this page to learn more, including what documents to bring to get a REAL ID.

State launches new consumer protection resources

The state has launched a new, centralized consumer protection hotline, website, and email address to make it easier for Pennsylvanians to report scams, resolve financial and insurance issues, and access help. Pennsylvanians can now call 1-866-PACOMPLAINT (1-866-722-6675), visit pa.gov/consumer, or email consumer@pa.gov to report financial, insurance, and consumer concerns. You can read more here.

PUC seeking public comment on managing energy demands

The Public Utility Commission recently held a hearing to examine the impact of massive data centers and other large energy users on our grid. Stakeholders testified about the need for clear and fair rules to ensure grid reliability, manage infrastructure needs, and safeguard ratepayers. The commission is now seeking public comment to help guide policy on these issues. Visit this page to learn more.

Upcoming events

Our next Veterans Services sessions will be held this Tuesday and Wednesday, May 6-7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please call the office at (412) 273-3400 in advance to schedule an appointment and avoid possible wait time.

In other veteran-related news, PA CareerLink is hosting two events – on May 7 and May 14 – to honor veterans for their service and help connect them with veteran-friendly employers and resource providers. Scan the QR code above to learn more, and please call (412) 248-JOBS with any questions.

The Summer Staycation program provides free admission to select Pittsburgh attractions through Aug. 31. Visit this page to learn more and find participating organizations.

The Young Ambassadors of Pennsylvania Program gives students in grades 10-12 a chance to attend environmental workshops, conduct community cleanups and educational events, and work with community leaders and the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful network. Applications are due June 10. Visit this page to learn more.

Finding funding and help with state matters

This is a reminder that the state has a handy tool to help search for grants. Visit this page to search or this page for a list of all the latest programs.

Please remember that my staff can help you with a wide variety of state-related matters, from filing for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program to obtaining a disability placard or senior bus pass – to name just a few. Contact us or stop by to see how we can help!

You can read my e-newsletter in a way that’s preferable to you by visiting my legislative website here and clicking on the accessibility icon in the lower right corner.