District Deliberations: December 2024 Edition

Rep. Chris Pielli December 20, 2024 | 10:39 AM

Hi Folks,

We hope this December edition of District Deliberations finds you all doing well. Ethicist Michael Josephson once wrote, “December is a month of enormous potential. It’s a time when we can all give and receive, a time when the spirit of humanity shines brightest.” If you look hard enough, no farther than our own community, you can see this spirit shining brightly from all walks of life and from all corners of our District. It is important to remember that although Chester County, and West Chester in particular, enjoys more affluence, education, and health than many of our fellow Americans, there is still those among us struggling with financial, medical, and mental challenges. Perhaps our neighbors suffering from want feel the pain even more living in a place of plenty.

Over the years, I’ve come to believe that as a community we are no stronger than our weakest link and that it is incumbent upon all of us to reach across aisles and give a helping hand to those in need, hence not only lifting them up, but lifting all of us in fellowship and recognition of our shared humanity. As such, looking back to all our Hometown Heroes we have recognized this past year and to those many we have not, I give my heartfelt thanks to you caregivers, volunteers, do-gooders, and silent heroes who stride across our District seeking to make the lives of our least fortunate better. You defy the media, the hype, the divisiveness and stress of a world often understood as going stark raving mad, to prove the simple, everlasting truth that there is no greater happiness or reward than helping your less fortunate neighbors.

This issue of District Deliberations features hometown heroes Volunteer Firefighter and West Chester Police Sgt. Gerry DiNunzio for his years of dedicated public service, and Safe Harbor of Chester County for their tireless effort to provide shelter, food, and support services for unhoused single men and women in our community. We also feature our session-end report on more than $21 million in grants provided to improve and protect our District; important benefits deadlines; the Battle of the Bulge Anniversary Commemoration event held in Ft. Indiantown Gap honoring the often-overlooked bravery and sacrifice of Pennsylvanian’s own 28th Infantry Division; our upcoming "$cam Jam" program event to help you spot and avoid fraud and scams; reflections on our wonderful West Chester Christmas Parade; pending legislation to help fund our Fire and EMS departments; and of course, the wise whelps of wisdom from our official mascot, Penny the Pup.

Folks, as always, we are thankful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to any questions or concerns you may have. We wish you, your families, and friends a safe and delightful Holiday Season as we take time out to be grateful for all that we have, including each other. Until our next issue, Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Stay Strong.

Chris Pielli
Pennsylvania State Representative House District 156

Battle of the Bulge Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony at Fort Indiantown Gap

Last year, the PA House of Representatives adopted my House Resolution 275, which recognizes Dec. 16 as Battle of the Bulge Day in Pennsylvania. The resolution honored and recognized the many contributions of Pennsylvania troops during the historic battle. Additionally, the resolution also requested that the PA DMVA create, publish, and present materials about the Battle of the Bulge and the special heroism displayed by Pennsylvania soldiers, airmen, and military units for the 80th Anniversary of the Battle.

In keeping with this resolution, I attended a ceremony at Fort Indiantown Gap to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge and honor local World War II veterans on Dec. 16th. Many thanks to the PA Department of Military & Veterans Affairs and the PA National Guard for hosting this event, and to Governor Shapiro for issuing a Proclamation declaring December 16th as Battle of the Bulge Day in Pennsylvania.

The Battle of the Bulge took place in the Ardennes region of Europe, from Dec. 16, 1944, to Jan. 25, 1945. Often called “the greatest American battle of the war,” it was the largest U.S. land battle of WWII and resulted in over 80,000 American casualties. Many troops took part in this battle including Pennsylvania’s 28th Infantry Division. These units held at all costs against overwhelming and relentless German infantry attacks in the earliest hours of the assault.

Please view my speech to the ceremony audience: https://youtu.be/XmBJJZSW4xM

Special thanks to the brainchild of this project Dan Ocko, Democratic Caucus Director of Legislation & Policy and to the West Chester University Department of Geography and Planning, Dr. Gary Coutu and students Cannon Maumus and Sam Shatoff (ROTC- 111th Reg., 28th Inf. Div.) for their great work building a database that will map the stories of the Battle of the Bulge. The department is currently running a survey to gather the history and memories of the battle from veterans and their descendants.

If you, a family member, or an acquaintance served during the Battle, or if you have historical data and photos, please consider participating in the survey (link below) in order to honor the resolve, heroism, and sacrifice of the 28th Infantry Division of the PA Army National Guard during the Battle.

https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/5c2c5c84cc9446ed92298abd5b20a944

The tens of thousands Pennsylvanians who bravely fought in the Ardennes knew that their mission was going to be difficult, but absolutely necessary in defeating the Third Reich and securing peace for the world. The valor and sacrifice of the 28th Inf. Div. during this battle is often untold and underappreciated. We can never do enough for our Veterans, but this commemoration will honor the memory of those who fought for freedom when our world was at its most vulnerable.

Hometown Hero: Gerry DiNunzio and Safe Harbor of Chester County

This month, we shine a spotlight on Gerry DiNunzio, a true hometown hero whose remarkable career in public service has made a lasting impact on our community.

Gerry’s journey began in 1987 when he followed in his father’s footsteps to become a firefighter. Over the course of nearly four decades, he has dedicated himself to protecting and serving our neighbors. Starting as a volunteer firefighter and later becoming a leader in the fire service, Gerry’s passion for helping others has been a guiding force throughout his career. His six years as Deputy Chief of the Goshen Fire Company stand out as a period of tremendous growth and achievement. Under his leadership, the company expanded from a single garage to two stations with a robust fleet of equipment, responding to over 4,000 calls annually.

Gerry’s commitment to public safety doesn’t stop at the firehouse. As President of the Chester County Fire Chiefs Association and a police officer with the West Chester Police Department since 2004, he has exemplified dedication, courage, and steady leadership. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Chester County, making our community safer and stronger.

Gerry often speaks about the joy of giving back and the satisfaction of helping others in their moments of need. That selflessness, combined with his boundless energy and inspiring leadership, has made him a role model for many.

This month, we highlight another Hometown Hero: Safe Harbor of Chester County, located in West Chester Borough, which provides shelter to unhoused single men and women. The organization has long been a pillar of support for individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. Its unwavering commitment to helping these individuals achieve self-sufficiency and independence has had a profound impact on countless lives. Safe Harbor is a place where people experiencing unimaginable challenges can find not only shelter, but also compassion, stability, and a real chance to rebuild their lives. Every winter season marks intensified struggle for folks seeking warmth, shelter, and stability in their lives.

With a $1.2 million annual budget, Safe Harbor of Chester County provides these services:

Clean bed, laundry, shower facilities, clothing and personal hygiene supplies in a safe, clean, and stable environment.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided every day for shelter residents.
On-site counseling and case management services for residents.
Collaboration with other human services agencies including: job training referral and employment placement; weekly life skills training (i.e. conflict resolution, banking/budgeting, etc.); and, access to health, financial, and legal aid services.
Lunch for 50-60 low and no income men, women, and children from the community 6 days each week, 11:30am until 12:30pm.

Interested in getting involved? -- Learn more at Safe Harbor of Chester County – Volunteer Opportunities

Supporting Our Firefighters and EMS Workers

Pennsylvania firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) workers face ongoing challenges due to a lack of sustainable funding. This can lead to equipment and staffing shortages which can cause a dangerous increase in response times. Act 54 of 2024 partially addressed this by allowing certain second class townships, contiguous to a city of the first class, to institute annual taxes for staffing, equipment, and training costs of fire companies and emergency services.

I believe this measure should be extended to all second class townships. To that end, I am introducing legislation to allow our local municipalities to increase the annual tax limit through ordinances, providing enhanced funding for fire and emergency services in all counties of the second class. This legislation will expand the powers established by Act 54 of 2024, ensuring broader support for our first responders.

Proper funding is essential for fire companies and EMS workers to protect our communities. This legislation is a critical step toward giving them the resources they need to save lives and serve effectively.

"Scam Jam" Informational Event for Senior Citizens

I would like to invite our Seniors to an informative "Scam Jam" event, co-hosted with the Housing Authority of Chester County, on Thursday, January 16, 10:00am - 12:00pm at the Melton Center (501 East Miner Street, West Chester Borough).

This interactive presentation will share information about elder abuse, investment fraud, and other common scams targeting senior citizens. You'll hear important information from the West Chester Borough Police; Chester County District Attorney's Office; PA Dept. of Banking and Securities; and PA Attorney General's Office.

BINGO, drinks, and snacks will be included!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scam-jam-tickets-1106670564449

Please Note: Event capped at 80 seat capacity.

Over $21 Million in State Grants Awarded to District 156 in 2023-2024 Legislative Session

Since taking office in December 2022, I am pleased to report that our dedicated efforts to support, protect, and provide for our many constituents and organizations have resulted in the receipt of over $21 million in state grant funding to the 156th District! My team and I are proud of this accomplishment and look forward to continue working hard for all working families in our community.

$6,000,000 – PENNVEST
$3,360,368 – PA Department of Community and Economic Development
$3,006,686 – PA Small Water and Sewer Program
$2,509,275 – PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency
$2,197,653 – PENNDOT
$1,500,000 – PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
$1,022,068 – PA Department of Education
$750,000 – Commonwealth Financing Authority
$570,000 – Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program/Watershed Restoration Protection Program
$530,000 – PA Department of Environmental Protection
$162,117 – Office of State Fire Commissioner
$50,000 – ARPA/PA State Appropriations
$40,000 – PA Fish and Boat Commission
$38,400 - PA Historical & Museum Commission
$25,000 – ARPA/PA Department of Human Services
$25,000 – ARPA/PA Department of Health
$21,786,567 — 2023-2024 TOTAL

Christmas Parade Jingled with Cheer through Downtown West Chester

A great time was had by all at our region’s greatest holiday event, the annual West Chester Christmas parade. Thank you to all the fantastic participants, sponsors, the West Chester Chamber of Commerce, and all the fantastic volunteers who once again hit it out of the park. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is Now Open

The 2024-25 LIHEAP Program is now open and accepting applications!

The current deadline to apply is Friday, April 4, 2025.

A LIHEAP cash grant helps pay your heating bill. You can receive from $200 to $1,000 based on your household size, income, and fuel type.

The cash grant is a one-time payment -- it's yours until the grant money runs out. The grant will be sent directly to your utility provider or fuel company to be credited on your bill.

Please note: LIHEAP is sometimes extended beyond the original deadline (currently April 4, 2025), but don't wait -- find out if you qualify and start receiving this benefit!

Learn more and apply here: Apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Please feel free to contact my district office staff for assistance with applying for LIHEAP or other state benefits like SNAP, Medical Assistance, etc.

PA Revenue’s Property Tax and Rent Rebate – December 31, 2024 Deadline Approaching

A reminder that applications for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program are due at the end of this month -- by December 31, 2024 -- for the 2023 program year. I want to make sure everyone who qualifies gets the money they deserve!

Please reach to my office staff for assistance at (610) 696-4990; or RepPielli@pahouse.net; or stop by 121 West Miner Street, Suite 1E, West Chester Borough.

Q: When can Pennsylvanians enroll in Pennie Healthcare Coverage?

A: Enrollment in 2025 Pennie health insurance coverage is open now through January 15, 2025.

Since 2021, many Pennsylvanians who’ve enrolled in a Pennie health insurance plan paid even lower monthly premiums, thanks to subsidies from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act. These subsidies are available for the 2025 plan year.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please visit Pennie.com/connect or Pennie Customer Service at 1-844-844-8040.