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.

As the year comes to a close, I want to wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season. Serving the residents of Reading in the 127th Legislative District has been an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work together to strengthen our community.

May your holidays be filled with happiness and hope for the new year.

I look forward to continuing our work in 2026!

Exciting News! Four local projects are set to receive more than $1 million in grant funding through the state’s Local Share Account program, directly benefiting our community. I’m incredibly proud to help deliver this critical funding and will keep working to ensure our district receives the resources it needs.

Funding highlights include:

• Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority – $406,575
• GoogleWorks Art Park Phase 2 – $600,000
• Berks County Emergency Response Team (BCERT) – $200,000
• Reading Skate Park Final Phase Development – $183,600

This $1.39 million investment is strengthening our community and making a real difference! Learn more about this funding here

The Neighborhood Assistance Program helps nonprofits revitalize communities, support low-income families, and improve distressed areas across Pennsylvania.

Funding was doubled in the 2024–25 state budget, from $36M to $72M, and continues in 2025–26. These resources will strengthen local organizations and create transformative opportunities for our community.

To learn more about these grants click here.

It was a pleasure to visit Kennedy Towers and bring Christmas dinner and dessert to the residents last week. Thank you for your trust, support, and warm welcome you always show me and my office. My commitment to the residents of the 127th District, the City of Reading, and all of Berks County remains steadfast. I will continue to serve, advocate, and work tirelessly on your behalf.

I look forward to seeing you again soon at Bingo Night!

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is now accepting applications to help people stay warm and safe in their homes.  

Eligible households can receive a one-time cash grant of $200 to $1,000, based on household size, income, and fuel type. Households facing a heating emergency—such as low fuel or a broken heating system—may also qualify for a crisis grant for additional support. Grants are paid directly to your utility or fuel provider.

You can apply online via PA Compass, in person at the Berks County Assistance Office located at the Reading State Office Building at 625 Cherry St., or by calling

the LIHEAP hotline at 610-736-4228 or toll free at 866-215-3911. 

If you need urgent assistance, call 211 or visit pa-navigate.org for additional resources and support.

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!

Last Friday, we delivered Christmas lunches to every member of the Reading Police Department. It was a small gesture, but an important opportunity to say thank you.

These officers leave their families to protect ours and run toward danger when others run away.

I want to recognize Chief Javier Ruiz and Deputy Chief Luz Shade for their leadership, and thank Nelson Eric Espinal for partnering with us to make this possible.

If you recently moved or are unsure of who represents you in government, I'm here to help! I am proud to represent the welcoming communities of the 127th District, which includes parts of Reading and Cumru Township, along with the boroughs of Kenhorst and Shillington.

Find your district and access support using the official 'Find My Legislator' tool: palegis.us/find-my-legislator.

My district office is your resource for state-related matters, including legislation, state programs, and navigating agencies. Please call us at 610-376-1529—we're here to help you and your family get the support you need.

The deadline to apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is coming up fast…Wednesday, December 31.

This program puts money back into the pockets of eligible seniors and residents right here in Berks County. My office is ready to help you apply for your rebate, call us today at 610-376-1529 to see if you qualify!

Whether you’re involved in agriculture, environmental projects, public safety, redevelopment, transportation, or other areas, there are numerous grants available that could support your work. 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!

In addition to helping people navigate and apply for many government programs, my office also now offers free notary services!  My goal is to make sure you and your family have the help you need, right here in Reading.

Call us at 610-376-1529 to schedule your appointment or learn more.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

32-A East Wing

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 787-3525

District Office

645 Penn St., 5th Floor
Reading, PA 19601

(610) 376-1529