August 2–8 is National Health Center Week, when we celebrate and recognize the vital work of Community Health Centers nationwide. CHCs are nonprofit clinics that offer affordable medical care to everyone, with a particular focus on communities that have less access to private healthcare and fewer financial resources.

I had the opportunity to visit ChesPenn Health Services, where I toured the facility, met with staff, and helped distribute appreciation gifts in recognition of their work. The visit offered a firsthand look at the wide range of services available, and the important role Community Health Centers play in improving access to care.

CHCs offer many kinds of care, but one area that is especially important to me is women's health, particularly during pregnancy. Regular prenatal check-ups are an important part of preventing and addressing serious health concerns for both mothers and babies. Community Health Centers help ensure families can access these essential services close to home.

The racial disparities we continue to see in maternal health outcomes are real, and these dedicated investments will help expand access to quality care for Black and Brown mothers when they need it most. Together with the work of Community Health Centers, these efforts move us closer to healthier families and stronger communities throughout Pennsylvania.

This year, the state budget provides over $38 million for maternal and infant health initiatives championed by the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus. This is huge news for our team and the communities we can impact! With funds going to newborn screening programs, neonatal services, nurse-family partnerships, and more, we are supporting resources for some of our most vulnerable growing families.

We are thrilled to invite all young girls from our community to join us for the 5th Annual Inspi-HER’d, our annual field day for girls!

Inspi-HER’d is a joyful, intentional Field Day for girls in 4th through 8th grade, centered on mental, physical, and relational well-being. Each year, we bring together a vibrant coalition of community organizations, advocates, and leaders who share a deep commitment to uplifting girls and affirming that their wellness is not a luxury—it is a necessity.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Naylors Run Park in Upper Darby. We would love to see the young ladies from your family there!

To register a girl to participate, click here.

We are also seeking organizations centered on the health, wellness, and empowerment of youth or young women to participate in Inspi-HER’d. If your organization is interested, please reach out to my office at (610) 259-7016. 

The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs recently launched a new resource for families supporting a loved one through substance use disorders and recovery.

It can be hard watching a family member or loved one go through the challenges that come with substance use disorders, and often, the people caring for them also go through grief, stress, and burnout.

Caregiver Connection is an online resource where those caring for someone with substance use disorder can find in-person or online support groups, make connections, learn more about supporting recovery, find out where to access free Narcan, and more.

Caregivers also need to care for themselves – and this is a great way to find the support and understanding you’re looking for.

The Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit first passed in last year’s state budget, and since then, nearly $217 million is being returned to working families. The credit is an addition to the earned income tax you already file!

This new tax credit continues in our latest state budget. Not sure if you qualify? Head to this webpage to use a free WPTC calculator.

We had an incredible turnout for our Back to School Resource Fairs this week, and possibly even more incredible volunteers help us out! We may have a few weeks left of summer break but you can tell our kids are ready to head back to school. The energy was high, the joy was pervasive.

A huge THANK YOU to Cradles to Crayons for providing Team Curry an opportunity to serve our students and families this 2026-2027 school year with the distribution of 1,000 bookbags during the 4 events this week!  I am so grateful to them and to all of our community partners for being part of this event, and I wish all of our students an amazing school year!

National Night Out is always a great way to get to know our local police officers and the emergency responders who serve our area. Our local events on Tuesday brought us together for an evening of family-friendly fun! If you missed it this year, no worries – National Night Out is celebrated every year on August 4.

Saturday, August 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Upper Darby Township Book Bag Resource Event

Stonehurst Playground

755 Crosley Ave., Upper Darby 

Register by emailing cdoggett@upperdarby.org

Saturday, August 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DHCD Back to School Fair

Delaware County Wellness Center

125 Chester Ave., Yeadon

Registration is required for free backpacks, vaccines, and physicals.

Register here.

To schedule a free physical, call 484-276-2100

Thursday, September 24 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

DCHD Rally for Recovery

Governor Printz Park

W. 2nd St. & Taylor Ave, Essington

Pennsylvania State Capitol

111 Irvis Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-4907

District Office

1500 Garrett Rd.
Upper Darby, PA 19082
(610) 259-7016

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