Act Now to Protect Food and Health Care for Over 3,000 Local Families

Rep. Manuel Guzman October 22, 2025 | 4:38 PM

Dear Neighbor & Estimado Vecino,

As always, here is some information I hope you find useful.

For Spanish readers, please read the full Spanish-language version of this email here.

Para los lectores en español, lea una versión completa de este boletín electrónico en su idioma aquí. Como siempre, aquí les presento información que espero pueda ser de utilidad. Y no olvides visitar mi página oficial para mantenerte informado. También puede verificar sus preferencias para asegurarse de que está registrado para recibir mis correos electrónicos.

Act Now to Protect Food and Health Care for
Over 3,000 Local Families

This November, over 3,000 families in Reading and Berks County risk losing their SNAP benefits and Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies.

Call on U.S. Senator McCormick and your members of Congress to act now. Two million Pennsylvanians are counting on them to protect access to food and health care.

Without this vital support, families will face hunger and unaffordable medical bills. Our communities can’t wait—Congress must act now to keep families healthy and secure.

Discover Available State Programs and Services

Call us at 610-376-1529 or visit my district office to learn about state programs and services and get the support your family needs!

Scam Alert: Fraudulent Calls Targeting SNAP Clients

SNAP clients are being targeted by a recent phone scam. Calls have been reported from the numbers 1-888-239-7710, 1-888-272-8720, and 1-888-737-6551, claiming that benefits are on hold until eligibility is verified and asking clients to provide their PIN.

This is a scam. DHS will never ask for personal information through an unsolicited text message, email, or phone call. Anyone who receives a suspicious call or message about their DHS benefits should report it immediately to the DHS Fraud Tip Line at 1-844-DHS-TIPS (1-844-347-8477).

Energy & Sustainability Grants Available for Local Businesses

The PA Small Business Advantage Grant offers up to $12,000 in matching funds to help local businesses invest in energy efficiency, pollution prevention, and environmental upgrades.

Eligible for-profit businesses with 100 or fewer employees can use the grant for projects like LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, high-efficiency boilers, truck retrofits, and runoff control.

This program helps reduce operating costs and support sustainability in our community.

Apply by March 13, 2026, to take advantage of this opportunity.

To learn more about this opportunity, click here.

Halloween on Penn Returns to Downtown Reading!

Celebrate the 5th Annual Halloween on Penn in Downtown Reading with Mayor Eddie Moran! Thursday, October 30th, 5–8 p.m. on the 600 block of Penn Street will be filled with costumes, candy, pumpkin decorating, a Halloween photo booth, and more. Free treats, prizes, and fun for all ages! Free parking at South Penn Garage (626 Cherry St.) from 4–9 p.m.

November 30 is the Last Day to Redeem
Farmers Market Vouchers

November 30 is the final day to redeem your vouchers for fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. These programs provide WIC families and income-eligible seniors with healthy food while supporting local farmers. Be sure to use your checks before the deadline, and find participating markets here.

Are You Part of the 127th District? Find Out Today!

If you’ve recently moved or aren’t sure which legislative district you’re in, I can help! The 127th District, a welcoming community I’m proud to represent, includes parts of Reading and Cumru Township, as well as the boroughs of Kenhorst and Shillington.

Know your district and access support!

Check the Find My Legislator tool: palegis.us/find-my-legislator

My district office is here to assist with state matters, legislation, programs, and navigating state agencies. Call us at 610-376-1529 to stay connected and get the support you and your family need!

Explore State Grant Opportunities Available Now

State grant funding is now available for individuals, organizations, and communities. Explore open opportunities for projects in education, small business, and community initiatives.

Check out this link for the latest information on available grants across these fields and more. Take advantage of these opportunities and make a positive impact in our community!

Get Your PennDOT Driver’s Manual at My Office!

My office is thrilled to announce that the PennDOT Driver’s Manual is now available for all constituents! Swing by 645 Penn Street, 5th Floor, Reading, during regular business hours to pick up your copy.

This manual is an essential resource for new drivers and anyone looking to refresh their knowledge of Pennsylvania road rules. My office is always here to support you with state services and helpful community resources!

More Time to Apply! Property Tax/Rent Rebate
Deadline Extended

The deadline to apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been extended to Dec. 31. This rebate means money back in the pockets of our older friends and neighbors here in Berks County – and I’m ready to help you apply! Call my office today at 610-376-1529 to see if you qualify.

Free notary services now offered, don’t miss out!

Exciting update! Our district office is now providing complimentary Notary services. Additionally, we're ready to assist you with heating and utility support, the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, PennDOT paperwork, and a range of local and state services for you and your family.

Feel free to reach out to us at 610-376-1529 to get more information!