Mercy Center for Women Receives State Support

Rep. Robert Merski January 16, 2025 | 2:58 PM

Neighborhood Assistance Program Assists Erie Area Women

Earlier this week, we had the immense privilege of joining Secretary Rick Siger of the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development and his incredible team at the Mercy Center for Women. During this inspiring visit, they unveiled the statewide recipients of the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) awards!

We are thrilled to share that the Mercy Center for Women is among the distinguished Pennsylvania organizations receiving tax credits for their transformative projects through the NAP. Following the exciting announcement, we had the wonderful opportunity to tour their latest housing project at the former Holy Rosary Rectory. It was truly enlightening to witness firsthand the remarkable work the Mercy Center is doing to uplift and empower the Erie community.

Honoring the Benedictine Sisters of Erie

A heartfelt congratulations to the Benedictine Sisters of Erie who celebrated their jubilees in 2024! We proudly honored the following Sisters for their unwavering dedication and ministry:

70 years: Sr. Placida Anheuser (not pictured), Sr. Joan Chittister, Sr. Lucia Marie Surmik
60 years: Sr. Carolyn Gorny-Kopkowski, Sr. Helen Heher (not pictured), Sr. Christine Kosin (not pictured), Sr. Marian Wehler (not pictured)
50 years: Sr. Diane Cook, Sr. Diane Rabe, Sr. Charlotte Zalot

Congratulations, Sisters! Your commitment and service inspire us all.

Information on Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging is reminding older adults that the annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is underway. This period, running from January 1 to March 31, allows beneficiaries to switch to a different plan or to original Medicare.

The Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) program offers free, unbiased counseling to help seniors make informed health insurance decisions. This initiative ensures that older adults can optimize their cost savings and access to healthcare.

Check to See if You have Unclaimed Property

I wanted to bring to your attention an important resource that could benefit many in our community—the Unclaimed Property Program through the Pennsylvania Treasury. This program helps reunite Pennsylvanians with lost or forgotten assets, such as uncashed checks, insurance policies, and forgotten bank accounts.

To see if you have unclaimed property waiting for you, visit Treasury's website at patreasury.gov, call their helpline at 1-800-222-2046, or give our office a call at 814-455-6319. It's a simple process, and you might just discover some unexpected funds. Let's make sure everyone gets back what rightfully belongs to them!

Stay Warm This Winter with LIHEAP

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to help you keep your home warm and safe during the coldest months. The 2024-25 LIHEAP season is open through April 4, 2025.

Eligibility Requirements:

Income: Your household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. For example, a household of four must have an annual income of $46,800 or less.
Residency: You must be a resident of Pennsylvania.
Home Heating Responsibility: You must be responsible for paying your heating costs, either directly or as part of your rent.

How to Apply:

Online: Apply for LIHEAP benefits using COMPASS, the online tool for Pennsylvanians to apply for health and human service programs.
Paper Application: Download, print, fill out, and return the paper application to your local county assistance office.

Crisis Assistance: If you're experiencing a heating emergency (e.g., broken heating equipment, lack of fuel), you may be eligible for additional crisis grants.

Don't wait! Apply today to ensure your home stays warm and safe this winter. For more information, visit Pennsylvania's LIHEAP website.

Reminder: REAL ID Deadline Approaching

The enforcement deadline for REAL ID is coming up on May 7, 2025. If you haven't obtained your REAL ID yet, now is the time to act!

Important Info:

Where to Apply: You can visit PennDOT's Driver and Vehicle Services offices statewide to process your REAL ID transactions.
Required Documents: Bring proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of Pennsylvania residency (e.g., utility bills).

Don't miss out on this opportunity to ensure your travel and identification needs are met. Stay ahead and get your REAL ID now!

For more details, visit PennDOT’s REAL ID website.