News Center

Get free assistance with your Property Tax/Rent Rebate

(Jan 24, 2019) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

Forms for Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program for the 2018 tax year are available – and my office staff is ready to help you file yours for free ! The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older, and people with disabilities 18 or older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters. Half of Social Security income is excluded and the maximum standard rebate is $650. Claimants must reapply for rebates every year because they are based on annual income and property taxes or rent paid each year. Spouses, personal representatives or estates may file rebate claims on behalf of deceased claimants who lived at least one day in 2018 and meet all other eligibility criteria. The rebates normally are distributed by the Department of Revenue beginning July 1. So, the sooner you file, the sooner you will receive your money. Read more

 

Economic business summit stresses support, growth

(Jan 23, 2019) The Philadelphia Tribune

“The summit is a community-building event,” said Fitzgerald. “Small businesses have been the lifeblood of our community. [And] where you have strong businesses, you have robust communities.” Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation announces its legislative platform for 2019-20

(Jan 16, 2019) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 16 – State Rep. Jason Dawkins, chairman of the Philadelphia House Delegation, along with delegation members today announced their legislative agenda during a news conference at the state Capitol. The delegation said its top priorities for working toward a better Philadelphia include investing in education and schools, criminal justice reform, health care for all, strengthening commercial coordinators, and alternative energy methods. "We are joining forces to work as one unit for the betterment of all Philadelphians, and that begins with fighting for what our constituents need the most,” Dawkins said. "We are also focused on making sure that everyone gets a fair shot and equal treatment." “Last session we worked in bipartisan fashion to get clean slate legislation signed into law and bring real criminal justice reform to those who need it,” said Rep. Jordan Harris, the Democratic Whip. “Now, we must continue fighting for further reform to reduce recidivism and allow Pennsylvanians who have paid their debit to society to pursue a productive path to citizenry.” “For too long our criminal justice system has been an injustice system for the mentally ill, the poor, and people of color,” said Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta. “While we’ve made progress, our prisons remain overcrowded, inmates mistreated, and mental health problems ignored. I stand with my Philadelphia colleagues to address Read more

 

Northwest Economic Empowerment Business Summit Jan. 19

(Jan 11, 2019) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 11 – State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald will be joined by Reps. Stephen Kinsey and Chris Rabb, Sen. Art Haywood and Councilwoman Cherelle Parker to co-host an annual summit to help current and future business owners succeed and prosper. The 2 nd Annual Northwest Economic Empowerment Business Summit, organized by Fitzgerald, will be held from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19 at Masjidullah, the Center for Human Excellence, 7433 Limekiln Pike, 19138. The theme of this year’s summit is “Continuing the Journey.” Those attending the summit can take part in a variety of workshops and hear from expert panelists about starting a business or making an existing business thrive. “Business owners are a vital part of our community,” Fitzgerald said. “We want to provide constituents with the opportunities and resources to assist them, whether it’s starting their own business venture or growing their existing business.” Fitzgerald said there will be door prizes and continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Congressman Dwight Evans will be the keynote speaker. Representatives and their staff also will be available to answer questions and provide information on state government-related services. For more information and to RSVP, please call Fitzgerald’s office at 215-549-0220 or by email at repizzy@pahouse.net . Read more

 

Fitzgerald to host MLK Day community celebration

(Jan 09, 2019) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 9 – State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald, D-Phila., announced she will host an event to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy while promoting peace. The MLK Day of Service will be held from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 21 at the West Oak Lane Senior Center, 7210-18 Ogontz Ave., 19138. “Many people see this holiday just as a day off from work or school. I believe Martin Luther King Jr. Day should be celebrated as a day on and not a day off,” Fitzgerald said. “We can best honor his legacy by volunteering to help our fellow citizens and creating opportunities to promote a better community. I hope everyone will join us to celebrate what we have accomplished coming together, and what we envision for the months and years to come.” Fitzgerald said the service project consists of creating banners expressing the vision of a world without gun violence. Projects will be displayed in Fitzgerald’s district office. Fitzgerald added she and her staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on state services. Attendees can also meet with staff from the offices of: Councilwoman Cherelle Parker Sen. Art Haywood Congressman Dwight Evans Fitzgerald said representatives from Nicetown CDC NAC & Energy Center will be distributing information on weatherization and weatherization kits. Oak Street Health will be offering resources on healthy lifestyles. Read more

 

Fitzgerald sworn in for second term as state representative

(Jan 01, 2019) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

HARRISBURG, Jan. 1 – During a ceremony at the state Capitol to open the 203rd legislative session, state Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald took the oath of office to begin her second term in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. “What an honor it is to be re-elected to serve the folks from the 203rd Legislative District,” Fitzgerald said. “I want to thank them for continuing to put their trust in me, and I am driven to ensure that their interests are represented within their communities and across the state.” During her first term, Fitzgerald stood up for women’s health, victims’ rights, and fought against sexual harassment and abuse. She helped to bring enforcement to Stop-and-Gos, and awareness to the public health risk that bullying causes for our youth. “As I get ready to serve my next term, I am reminded of our victories for state funding to reduce gun violence, our hearings to support victim services, and legislative packages to help address the needs of incarcerated women. We have plenty to work on in the coming session. It’s going to take a lot of effort, but I and my colleagues look forward to the challenge,” Fitzgerald said. Fitzgerald encourages her constituents to contact her via email at RepFitzgerald@pahouse.net , through her website at www.pahouse.com/Fitzgerald , or on social media at www.facebook.com/RepFitzgerald and www.twitter.com/RepFitzgerald . EDITORS/ASSIGNMENT DESKS: A photo of Rep. Read more

 

Fighting hunger this holiday season

(Nov 21, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

With the holidays upon us, I want to remind everyone that the commonwealth offers some excellent resources to help families who may be struggling with food insecurity. Check out these links for: A list of food banks by county An interactive map of food pantries A list of state food programs Ideas for fighting hunger in your community If you don’t need help but want to volunteer your time or resources, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in the links above. This holiday season, let’s work together to make sure everyone has blessings to count. Read more

 

Heating aid via LIHEAP now open

(Nov 01, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

The 2018-2019 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program – LIHEAP – is accepting applications for heating assistance grants. LIHEAP offers cash grants of $200 to $1,000 that are sent directly to the utility company to defray heating costs for eligible households, and crisis benefits of up to $600 for households in immediate danger of being without heat. Remember: These are grants and do not have to be repaid. This season’s income guidelines for both LIHEAP cash and crisis grants are $18,210 for an individual, $24,690 for couples and increases for each additional person in the household. Please click here for more LIHEAP information. Please consider visiting my office if you need help filing a LIHEAP application. Besides my office, LIHEAP information is available by: Contacting local County Assistance offices by phone or in person. Calling the LIHEAP Client Helpline at 1-866-857-7095 or PA Relay at 711 for the hearing impaired. Applying online at https://www.compass.state.pa.us . Read more

 

PLBC applauds state funding for gun violence reduction initiatives

(Sep 07, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

HARRISBURG, Sept. 7 – Members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus applauded the announcement made today by Gov. Tom Wolf that more than $1.5 million in funding will be allocated across the commonwealth to help reduce gun violence. "The crisis created by the illegal gun violence epidemic cannot be averted without those on the frontlines of this fight having access to the resources and tools needed to do the work of healing those affected,” said state Rep. Jordan Harris, D-Phila., PLBC chairman. “The PLBC is proud to stand with Governor Wolf as we begin to ensure that our communities have the support and tools needed to begin to address this public health crisis." “The PLBC has been working hard to address gun violence in our community as a public health issue, because we understood that resources follow public health concerns. Today’s grant is a result of our collective work with Governor Wolf, city officials, and local advocates,” said state Rep. Donna Bullock, D-Phila., vice chair of the PLBC. “As a member of the School Safety and Security Committee, I hope to bring more resources to Philadelphia to address gun violence in and around our schools.” “It is no secret there is a gun violence epidemic in the commonwealth. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and all points in between, shootings are taking lives one or two at a time, destroying our communities and families,” said state Rep. Chris Read more

 

Fitzgerald announces $1 million grant for the Free Library of Philadelphia

(Sep 07, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 7 – State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald is pleased to announce the Free Library of Philadelphia and its 21 st Century Libraries Initiative has been awarded a $1 million Redevelopment Assistance Capitol Program grant for renovations at the Frankford, West Oak Lane and Parkway Central branches. “Libraries are fundamental to revitalize our neighborhoods. People go to the library looking for resources and information, but they find much more. They connect, they get to know each other, share concerns and look for solutions – and that’s how you build community,” Fitzgerald said. “I thank Governor Wolf for his commitment to provide support for those who need it the most.” The project will repair and upgrade three buildings, and will reposition these three facilities with new and expanded services. Funds will be used to defray the costs of design and construction, such as hazardous material abatement, interior renovations, exterior building repairs, and new construction to support building expansion. The proposed renovations also include technology upgrades, new furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The project is estimated to cost about $37.2 million. The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) is a commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. Read more

 

8/30/18 – Victim Support Services – Philadelphia

(Aug 30, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

Materials from House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing hosted by State Rep. Stephen Kinsey and State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald. Read more

 

Kinsey, Fitzgerald to host Policy hearing on victim support services

(Aug 28, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 28 – State Reps. Stephen Kinsey and Isabella Fitzgerald, D-Phila., will host a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on victim support services. The hearing will be held on Thursday, Aug. 30 at 10 a.m. at Tabor Services, 57 East Armat Street, Philadelphia. Kinsey and Fitzgerald requested the hearing to determine how the state can better assist victim support services. They will be joined by a number of state representatives from across the commonwealth, including Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster. The current agenda is: 10:00 a.m. – Welcome and Opening Remarks 10:10 a.m. – Panel One: Tinesha Banks, President and CEO, Tabor Services Melany Nelson, Executive Director, Northwest Victim Services Dr. Kevin London, Dir. Behavioral Health, Greater Phila Health Action Mike Lee, Assistant District Attorney, Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office 11:10 a.m. – Panel Two: Victoria Greene, Founder/Executive Director, Every Murder Is Real Chantay Love, Program Director, Every Murder Is Real Kimberly Tameria, Parent George Timbers, Care Manager, Greater Phila Health Action 12:00 p.m. – Closing Remarks The meeting is one in a series being held across the state on the House Democrats’ Plan4PA that includes putting people first, good jobs, quality schools and fair taxes. Visit www.plan4pa.com for Read more

 

Fitzgerald to host National Night Out on Tuesday

(Aug 02, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 2 – State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald, D-Phila., today announced she will host a National Night Out celebration in northwest Philadelphia from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7 at Masjidullah, The Center for Human Excellence Parking Lot at the corner of Washington Lane and Limekiln Pike. Fitzgerald said the free event will feature games and activities for children of all ages, free food and more family fun. State and local resources will also be on hand to assist with any concerns or issues families may have. Representatives from the 14 th and 35 th police districts will be present. “Bringing our neighborhoods together is one of my favorite parts of my job,” Fitzgerald said. “This is a great opportunity for the community to have some fun while getting to know the law enforcement in the neighborhood.” Started in the Philadelphia area in 1984, National Night Out has since expanded to 16,000 communities across the country with more than 38 million neighbors involved. The program’s mission is to promote community involvement in local anti-crime programs, heighten neighborhood spirit and to increase knowledge on crime and drug prevention. For more information, call Fitzgerald’s office at (215) 549-0220. Media coverage is invited. Read more

 

Taking a stand against family-separation policy

(Jun 21, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

The events that have been unfolding along the U.S.-Mexico border have been heartbreaking and unbearable to see. As a mother, I cannot fathom the idea of having my children taken away from me, let alone the devastating impact on the children. This separation is a vile and inhumane act. I am firmly against the administration’s zero tolerance, family-separation immigration policy. I joined some of my colleagues from the House and the Senate for a rally Thursday in opposition to these actions. I also co-sponsored House Resolution 1000 , which would urge the president to immediately reverse the policy. While the president signed an executive order into place Wednesday that would stop the separation of immigrant children and parents, we all must make sure he stands by it. Using children as political pawns is a tasteless and horrifying tactic to gain immigration policy changes. I hope Congress will work on sensible reform and to ensure these events do not occur again. This country is supposed to be the land of the free for everyone, not just for some. Read more

 

Legislative package would help incarcerated women, parents in Pa.

(Jun 21, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

HARRISBURG, June 21 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., and colleagues today unveiled a package of legislation that would help incarcerated women and parents in Pennsylvania. "I'm glad that we're having vital, bipartisan discussions about criminal justice reform. I think it's crucial for those discussions to include women and girls of color," said Cephas, chairwoman of the Women and Girls of Color Subcommittee of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus. "Women are the fastest-growing segment of the incarcerated population. Since 1985, the rate of incarcerated women has increased at nearly double the male rate. The ACLU reports that African-American women and women of color are significantly overrepresented in the prison population. African-American women are 30 percent of incarcerated women in the United States, but only 13 percent of the female population. In addition, Hispanic women are 16 percent of incarcerated women but only 11 percent of all women in the U.S." Cephas plans to introduce a bill to create a Women and Girls Committee within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. "I believe this would aid the commission in its work as it specifically relates to research and programs that will have a direct impact on women and girls." Rep. Jordan Harris, D-Phila., chairman of the PLBC, said, “This package of legislation would help support incarcerated women in the commonwealth’s prison Read more

 

Deadline extended for Pa. Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program

(Jun 11, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

I'm happy to announce that the deadline for the 2017 Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been extended to Dec. 31, 2018. The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older, and people with disabilities 18 or older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters. Half of Social Security income is excluded and the maximum standard rebate is $650. Claimants must reapply for rebates every year because they are based on annual income and property taxes or rent paid each year. Spouses, personal representatives or estates may file rebate claims on behalf of deceased claimants who lived at least one day in 2017 and meet all other eligibility criteria. Applications can also be filed online at www.revenue.pa.gov . There is NO charge to apply for this program. If you need assistance with applying, please contact my office. Read more

 

Policy Committee examines Fitzgerald bill on breast density screening

(May 30, 2018) Policy Committee

PHILADELPHIA, May 30 – State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald, D-Phila., today hosted a House Democratic Policy Committee hearing on her House Bill 579 , which would mandate insurance coverage for breast density screenings. Held at the Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, the public hearing brought together women’s health experts and state legislators from across Pennsylvania to further explore why the screening mandate is necessary. “I’m thankful to my colleagues and [House Democratic Policy Committee] Chairman Mike Sturla for coming to Philadelphia to discuss my legislation,” Fitzgerald said. “These screenings and early detection give women the best chance at beating cancer. It’s a simple and reasonable approach that will save lives and hopefully save both patients and insurance companies money with earlier detection.” Sturla added, “I am in full support of any approach we can take to improve women’s access to quality health care, and medical screenings are a key component of that quality care.” Panelists included: Pat Halpin-Murphy, president/founder, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition; Jessica Graae, patient, Delaware County; Novella Lyons, president/founder, Women of Faith and Hope Inc.; and Gail Mitchell, board member, Women of Faith and Hope Inc. The meeting was one in a series being held across the state on House Democrats’ Plan4PA, which includes putting people first, good jobs, quality Read more

 

Fitzgerald to host House Democratic Policy Committee hearing on breast density screening insurance coverage Wednesday in Philadelphia

(May 24, 2018) Policy Committee

PHILADELPHIA, May 24 – As part of the House Democratic Caucus’ Plan4PA, state Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald, D-Phila., will host a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on her House Bill 579 , which would mandate insurance coverage for breast density screening. The hearing will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 30 at the Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, Sheerr Building Auditorium, 1101 West Tabor Road, Philadelphia, PA 19141 . Fitzgerald requested the hearing to highlight the significance these screenings play in women’s health and that insurance coverage of the screenings should be mandated. Fitzgerald will be joined by state legislators from across the state, including Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster. The current agenda is: 2 p.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks 2:10 p.m. Panelists: Pat Halpin-Murphy , president/founder, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition Jessica Graae , patient, Delaware County Novella Lyons , president/founder, Women of Faith and Hope, Inc. Gail Mitchell , board member, Women of Faith and Hope, Inc. 3:20 p.m. Closing Remarks The meeting is one in a series being held across the state on House Democrats’ Plan4PA that includes putting people first, good jobs, quality schools and fair taxes. Visit www.plan4pa.com for additional information about the Plan4PA and www.pahouse.com/policycommittee for Policy Committee materials. The media and public are Read more

 

Fitzgerald to host Spring Fest on May 26

(May 21, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, May 21 – To celebrate spring, family and community, state Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald is hosting the Northwest Philly Spring Fest. The event will take place from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 26 on Ogontz Avenue, between the 7100 and 7200 blocks, 19138. Fitzgerald said this free event will feature activities and information on city and state services, as well as employment opportunities available within state government. “This event is a perfect opportunity to gather the family and spend some time together. We’ll have a health pavilion, a children’s corner, live entertainment and a handcrafted marketplace. I encourage all to attend,” Fitzgerald said. Fitzgerald’s office will also be shredding unwanted documents from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call Fitzgerald’s office at (215) 549-0220. Read more

 

Fitzgerald announces up to $2.1 million in funding for local housing

(Apr 19, 2018) Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald

PHILADELPHIA, April 19 – State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald, D-Phila., has announced the approval of up to $2.1 million in state financing for two local housing initiatives. "I'm pleased the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Authority has approved financing for more affordable housing in Northwest Philadelphia. This will help to meet an important need in our communities," Fitzgerald said. Most of the funding – up to $1.7 million – was approved for the planned Golden Age Living Accommodations building, to be built at 2030 E. Haines St. The four-story building for people 62 or older will have 50 units, including seven accessible units, and two elevators. Plans call for 46 one-bedroom units and four two-bedroom units. GALA has been approved for up to $1.2 million in Low Income Housing Tax Credits and $500,000 in funding from the realty transfer tax. Fitzgerald said Rebuilding Together Philadelphia has been awarded $400,000 in realty transfer tax funding for its Safe and Healthy Homes Northwest Philadelphia program. The funding will be used in northwest Philadelphia to make safety renovations to the homes of middle-income homeowners 55 or older who have significant barriers to maintaining the overall safety of their homes. These much-needed home improvements will allow residents to age in place and improve the overall safety and livability of their homes. This is an issue Fitzgerald and state Sen. Art Haywood, D-Phila./Montgomery, have been working Read more

 

Get free assistance with your Property Tax/Rent Rebate
Jan 24, 2019

Economic business summit stresses support, growth
Jan 23, 2019

Philadelphia Delegation announces its legislative platform for 2019-20
Jan 16, 2019

Northwest Economic Empowerment Business Summit Jan. 19
Jan 11, 2019

Fitzgerald to host MLK Day community celebration
Jan 09, 2019

Fitzgerald sworn in for second term as state representative
Jan 01, 2019

Fighting hunger this holiday season
Nov 21, 2018

Heating aid via LIHEAP now open
Nov 01, 2018

PLBC applauds state funding for gun violence reduction initiatives
Sep 07, 2018

Fitzgerald announces $1 million grant for the Free Library of Philadelphia
Sep 07, 2018

8/30/18 – Victim Support Services – Philadelphia
Aug 30, 2018

Kinsey, Fitzgerald to host Policy hearing on victim support services
Aug 28, 2018

Fitzgerald to host National Night Out on Tuesday
Aug 02, 2018

Taking a stand against family-separation policy
Jun 21, 2018

Legislative package would help incarcerated women, parents in Pa.
Jun 21, 2018

Deadline extended for Pa. Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
Jun 11, 2018

Policy Committee examines Fitzgerald bill on breast density screening
May 30, 2018

Fitzgerald to host House Democratic Policy Committee hearing on breast density screening insurance coverage Wednesday in Philadelphia
May 24, 2018

Fitzgerald to host Spring Fest on May 26
May 21, 2018

Fitzgerald announces up to $2.1 million in funding for local housing
Apr 19, 2018