e-newsletter: Civic Conversations, voting info and more!

 
 

Dear Neighbor,

I’d like to share with you the work that I’m doing in Harrisburg and locally to ensure we Thrive in the 185. Keep reading for more details, follow my social media for updates, and please contact one of my offices to find out how we can help you with state and local programs and resources. #InformationIsPower

Follow me on social media and check out my website!

#GetInvolved and #JoinTheConversation!

 

Join Me for Civic Conversations TONIGHT

I’m kicking off this fall with the return of my Civic Conversations series. I’m partnering with local and state leaders to host these gatherings, which are designed to help you understand how your government works for you and the importance of getting involved—ensuring your voice is heard through your vote. Joining me for these conversations will be Philadelphia City Commissioner Chairman Omar Sabir, City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, and my colleagues and leaders from the state House who also represent parts of Delaware County, South, and Southwest Philadelphia: Speaker Joanna McClinton and Appropriations Chairman Jordan Harris.

The first event is TONIGHT - Friday evening, Oct. 17 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

All events will take place at the 2nd Council District Satellite Election Office, located at Woodland Plaza, 6100 Woodland Ave., in Southwest Philadelphia. These discussions are always informative and engaging, and I hope you can join us!

You can’t grow if you don’t know! #JoinTheConversation

What’s Your Plan to VOTE on Nov. 4?

Are you registered to vote in the November municipal election? You have until Monday, October 20 to register! Click the graphic above to access all the resources you need to ensure your voice is heard at the ballot box this November. There are many important positions on the ballot this year that directly affect your daily life and can impact your neighborhood.

Make your plan today for how you will exercise your voice on this election day, Nov. 4!

? If you live in Delco, click here to find out more about what’s on your ballot and how to get involved locally.

? If you live in Philadelphia, click here to find out more about what’s is on your ballot and how to get involved locally.

If you live in the South and Southwest Philadelphia areas of the 185th, be sure to visit the 2nd District Satellite Election Office at 6100 Woodland Ave. for assistance with voting needs, including registering, updating your information, applying for a mail-in ballot in person, and more! They’re now open seven days a week for your convenience.

Changes Likely Coming to Pennie

Due to changes in federal law, and since the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits were not renewed by Congress, health insurance costs are expected to rise significantly for Pennie enrollees in 2026. Health insurance costs are likely to increase by a minimum of 82% - some folks may see a doubled or even quadrupled increase. You should be receiving communications from Pennie about these changes if you are currently enrolled. For now, make sure that your information is up to date with Pennie, including your income. You can also begin shopping around for other plans to see if there are cost-effective solutions for you. The 2026 open enrollment period will begin on Nov. 1 for health insurance plans for 2026.

Click the graphic above to visit the Pennie website created to explain what is happening, why it is happening, and how you can prepare for these changes.

You can also go to pennie.com/connect to find Pennie-certified assisters and brokers by your ZIP code. Some offer virtual, over-the-phone, and in-person appointments. My offices are also here to guide you through the process.

 

New Work Requirements for Some SNAP Recipients

If you benefit from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) there are new work requirements to continue receiving those benefits. Under the new federal guidelines, certain recipients will need to report that they are working, volunteering, or participating in an education or training program for at least 20 hours a week (or 80 hours each month). The requirements will continue to expand throughout the fall of 2025. You should have received a letter from the PA Dept. of Human Services if you are effected, however you can learn more on the DHS website. These changes are due to a new law recently passed by congress and signed into law by President Trump. These cuts disproportionately harm Philadelphia children, seniors, and working families. We’re fortunate in Philadelphia and Delco to have so many organizations and nonprofits that can assist in times of need, but it’s hard to replace or supplement these federal benefits for the long-term. Please reach out to my office if you need food assistance and we can connect you with options.

 

Seniors Ride FREE on SEPTA

Did you know that seniors ride for free on SEPTA? A SEPTA Senior Fare Card allows seniors 65 and older to ride for free, but those cards do expire after three years. My office can help you get or renew your card. As we continue to work on a State Budget solution for mass transit, senior fare cards still allow you to ride for free to your medical appointments, your job, visiting family and friends, or anything you need to do in our region.

SEPTA keeps our communities moving and economy thriving – and a senior fare card helps your wallet by saving on transportation costs! Contact my office today for more information on getting or renewing your SEPTA Senior Fare Card.

 

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

Shredding Event!

Shredding your outdated and unneeded paperwork is the best way to protect your identity and personal information. Bring your old documents like credit card statements, tax paperwork, financial records and any other papers that contain sensitive information and we’ll shred and dispose of it on-site.

We’ll be at the Turner/Motivation Parking Lot at 5900 Baltimore Ave. beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25. See you there!

 

Veterans Fair

I’m joining Speaker Joanna McClinton to honor veterans from our area for their service and sacrifice. If you or your loved one served our country, we want to give you the recognition you deserve! Contact my office to register for our event happening on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the PAL Center, 5900 Elmwood Ave. in Southwest Philadelphia.

 

Glow Together Walkers – ONE MORE TIME for 2025!

Join me and Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton for our last Glow Together Walk of 2025 on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7 a.m. or 6 p.m. for an hour of self-care. Start your morning with intention and community as we stroll through the beautiful spaces in our area with the Glow Together Walkers. Walking, spending time outdoors, and connecting with your community are excellent self-care strategies that keep you moving and engaged with like-minded individuals.

We’ll be at Heinz National Wildlife Refuge for 7 a.m. and at Bartram’s Garden at 6 p.m.

The hour is free and for all ages. You can click above to RSVP or just show up!

 

 

Confronting the Chaos

The actions that are happening right now with the federal government in Washington, D.C. have been very overwhelming with what seems like daily attacks on our neighbors, our freedoms and basic rights. Just remember that there are always people to help. If you are concerned about the actions being taken on immigration, I encourage you to contact these local organizations listed in this document below. Additionally, while my office is here to assist you with state and local services, your concerns on these federal actions need to be heard by your federal officials. Check out the list of our federal representatives and senators and contact their offices for assistance or to let them know about your concerns. We’ve seen recently how advocacy and loud objections can lead to a course reversal or reevaluation by the president and his administration.


Don’t give up and don’t give in.
Know your rights and stay vigilant for your family and your community.

 

 

IN THE COMMUNITY

I was honored to join Speaker McClinton, Council President Johnson, Senator Williams, the Free Library of Philadelphia, and many other dignitaries and neighbors to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Paschalville Library. Serving the Paschalville and Elmwood communities since it opened in 1915, the library underwent a $13.2 million transformation through the City’s Rebuild program.

Our staff recently traveled to New York to observe the preventative measures the city takes to avoid flooding. The trip was hosted by the Philadelphia Office of Sustainability, community partners Eastwick Friends and Neighbors, and a host of other federal, state, and city partners. I was represented by Diane Poulson-Venn. I remain deeply committed to addressing flooding in the Eastwick community, and, together with our community partners, we are working toward meaningful solutions in the near future. It was a very informative and inspiring trip!

It was so great connecting so many folks with our services at the consumer utility event hosted by Senator Williams office.

Thanks to all our neighbors who came out for Wednesday’s Broad Street West Civic Association meeting!

 

 

PROGRAMS AND OPPORTUNITIES

 

Property Tax/Rent Rebates Being Distributed Now!

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Did you already apply for your Property Tax or Rent Rebate? Rebates are now being distributed so you should receive yours soon – track your refund online! If you haven’t applied yet, my office is here to help you find out if you qualify and help you apply. Contact one of my offices today - don’t wait!

These rebates have made it easier for older and disabled folks to stay in their homes while affording groceries, medicine, and so much more.

 

The application period is now open to get a rebate on your 2024 taxes or rent paid. Thanks to changes PA House Democrats fought for, more people are eligible, and the rebates are bigger than ever!

 

State Grants Available

My office helps city officials and local organizations connect to state grants available to help them do their important work to improve our communities and the lives of residents. You can find a list of state grant programs that are currently open for application on my website. We update this list as new programs come online so check back often.

 

My offices are here to help!

In service and in action,

Rep. Regina Young

Pennsylvania State Capitol
105-A East Wing

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-8634

Southwest Philla. Office

6844 Elmwood Ave.

Philadelphia, PA 19142
(215) 952-3376

Delco Office

629 N. Governor Printz Blvd.
Essington, PA 19029

(610) 616-2003