Veterans are invited to my Annual Veteran’s Breakfast at the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge on Thursday, October 13 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Read more
PAOLI, Sept. 28 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, invites veterans of the 157 th Legislative District and their guests to join her for a nutritious appreciation breakfast from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 13 at Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, 1601 Valley Forge Road, Valley Forge, PA 19481. “I am pleased to be able to host my annual veterans’ breakfast again this year,” said Shusterman. “It is a wonderful opportunity for my staff and me to recognize and honor those who have sacrificed so much to protect our rights and freedoms.” Representatives from several veterans’ organizations will be available to answer questions residents may have and provide information about state resources available to those who have served. This breakfast is open to veterans living in Phoenixville Borough, Willistown, Easttown, Tredyffrin, Schuylkill and Upper Providence townships. Reservations are required; RSVP by Oct. 7 by calling 484-200-8260 or online here . Anyone with questions can contact Shusterman’s office at 484-200-8260. Read more
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Regional Policing Assistance Program Who May Apply: Applicants for the Regional Policing Assistance Program may be any municipality – a city, borough, township, home-rule municipality, or county. Applicants may also be a public or quasi-public body, or its representative, duly authorized to act on behalf of one or more municipalities. All applications must be accompanied by fully executed Articles of Agreement or an Intergovernmental Agreement that establishes a Regional Police Department. Use: Funding will support efforts in establishing or expanding regional police departments that would improve the following: uniformity and consistency of enforcement across municipalities; recruitment; distribution and deployment of police personnel; training and personnel efficiency; career enhancement opportunities; enhanced professionalism; and reduction of costs. Funds: A total of approximately $1,000,000 in federal funds is being announced to support this initiative. Applicants may apply for up to $150,000 for the formation of a new regional police department or up to $50,000 for the expansion of an existing regional police department by adding a chartered municipality(ies). Application Deadline: September 6, 2023 More information: PCCD Website Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Legal Read more
HARRISBURG, Sept. 15 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, is urging her colleagues in the legislature to vote “no” on S.B. 907. The bill would create a Domestic Animal Welfare Board to review existing laws and regulations related to the keeping and handling of animals and to make recommendations for legislative and regulatory changes. “While having a board oversee animal welfare may sound like a good thing, I fear that this board will be packed with members who represent the pet sale industry and not animal welfare experts,” said Shusterman. “We must do all we can to strengthen our animal protection legislation and letting those who support puppy mills have a say will weaken the animal protection laws we already have here in Pennsylvania. I urge my House colleagues to vote no on this legislation.” Senate Bill 907 is currently sitting in the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Commonwealth Financing Authority: Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF) (Funding Source: Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund) Who May Apply : Allegheny County Municipalities, Authorities (Redevelopment, Municipal or Industrial), Councils of Government, Non-Profit Organizations, Trusts and For Profit Organizations. Use : To support community and economic development projects in Allegheny County. Funds : Awards between $150,000 and $500,000. Application Deadline : September 23, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.alleghenycounty.us/economic-development/authorities/gedtf-fund.aspx . Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: Traffic Signal Technologies Grant Program (Funding Source: Motor License Fund) Who May Apply : Municipalities. Use : To install and maintain traffic signal technologies. Funds : Varies by award. This is a reimbursement grant with no matching funds required. Application Deadline : September 30, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.dot.state.pa.us/public/Bureaus/BOMO/Portal/TST_INFO.pdf . Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Grant Program (Funding Source: American Rescue Plan Act Funds) Who May Apply Read more
PAOLI, Sept. 1– State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, said she is inviting residents of the 157 th Legislative District to join her and her staff for an open house from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14 at her district office, 42 E. Lancaster Ave., Unit A. “Getting to meet with constituents is an important part of being a state representative,” Shusterman said. “The best way to serve my district is to know what is important to them. We welcome everyone to stop by our open house and I look forward to hearing constituents’ thoughts on issues, which will help me better serve as their voice in Harrisburg.” Residents of all ages are invited to visit the office, meet Shusterman, get the latest news from Harrisburg, sign up for a SEPTA Senior Pass and check for unclaimed property. Shusterman and her staff will also be available to assist with any state-related matters. During the open house, the district office will collect new and gently used children’s books. The donated books will be given to the Paoli and Easttown libraries. For more information, call the office at (484) 200-8260 or email RepShusterman@pahouse.net . Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: ?Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program (Funding Source: General Fund) Who May Apply : An individual, partnership, association, firm, corporation, cooperatives or any other legal entity. Use : To support projects that grow agricultural infrastructure in urban food deserts to improve access to fresh, local food and provide opportunities for hands-on learning, community-building, and for people to become social entrepreneurs. Community gardens are eligible projects. Funds : $2,500 micro grants or up to $50,000 for collaboration grants. Application Deadline : September 16, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Funding/Farmbill/Pages/Urban-Ag-Grant.aspx . Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: ?Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Program (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who May Apply : An individual, partnership, association, firm, corporation or any other legal entity. Use : To support the development and expansion of current or future very small meat and poultry processing operations. Funds : Grants are limited to no more than $100,000 per applicant. Application Deadline : September 26, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Funding/Farmbill/Pages/Very-Small-Meat-Processor-Grant.aspx . Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: ?Agriculture and Youth Grant Program Read more
HARRISBURG, Aug. 25 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, today announced the award of a new $250,000 Ready to Learn block grant for Phoenixville Area School District. She said the funding, for which she advocated, is in addition to record investments in basic and special education, mental health care, and safety initiatives provided for schools across Pennsylvania in the recently enacted state budget. “Phoenixville School District is set to receive this injection to help classroom learning and technology improvements directly,” Shusterman said. “Investments like the Ready to Learn program are designed to impact students where they learn and how they learn, with funds available for technology upgrades and other improvements to the classroom.” Shusterman also pointed out that school districts received the following state funds in this year’s budget: Phoenixville Area School District: $600,389 (11.1% increase from last year). Spring-Ford Area School District: $1,595,554 (15% increase from last year). Tredyffrin-Easttown School District: $589,067 (14.6% increase from last year). The budget increases education funding by almost $750 million ($525 million in Basic Education funding and $225 million in Level Up funding). The budget also invests $100 million in Special Education, $100 million in school safety and security, and $100 million in mental health resources for Read more
Over the past few months, I have heard from many Willistown residents who are affected by the recent sale of the Willistown sewer system to AQUA. Read more
I invite residents of the 157th Legislative District to join me from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23 at the Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road in Devon for an informal discussion about the vital role greenspaces play in maintaining the well-being of neighborhoods. Read more
HARRISBURG, Aug. 17 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, today announced the award of $150,000 in state funding for Historic Philadelphia Inc., which will allow for programing to continue in Valley Forge Park. Every $1 spent on tourism brings $3 into Pennsylvania and its economy, said Shusterman, who serves on the state House Tourism and Recreational Development Committee. “Valley Forge Park is a real critical piece of America’s history in our backyard,” she said. “I’m happy to have help put forth this funding in the recently passed state budget, one that makes record investments in Pennsylvania’s schools, cultural landmarks, critical programs and services, and more.” Historic Philadelphia Inc. also helps provide programming at Independence Hall and at the Constitution Center, as well as for the Chinese Lantern Festival in Philadelphia. “This is not just a local investment,” she said. “We’re promoting regionwide strengthening in our tourism sector, continuing to link the cultural sites in our great southeastern Pennsylvania counties.” The park is also home to protected wildlife and an extensive system of trails. It hosts thousands of visitors per month. Read more
We are just a few weeks away from fall. Ihope everyone is enjoying the last part ofsummer before the kids head back to school! Read more
PAOLI, Aug. 11 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, announced today that the Phoenixville Area Senior Center was awarded $125,000 in state funding. The grant, funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development , will pay for renovation and engineering costs associated with an electrical improvement project. “This grant will help the Phoenixville Area Senior Center use the upstairs part of their building through HVAC renovations,” said Shusterman. “This means the center will have more space to provide additional services. I’m glad to see our tax dollars invested in a community center helping seniors stay healthy, active and connected.” Founded in 1978, the Phoenixville Area Senior Center exists to serve, support and enhance the lives of all senior citizens, 55 years of age and older. It is located at 153 Church St. in Phoenixville and offers different programs and activities for residents in Chester and Montgomery counties. Those who need help applying for grants, or those with questions should contact Shusterman’s office at 484-200-8260 or RepShusterman@pahouse.net . Read more
PAOLI, Aug. 11 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman invites residents of the 157 th Legislative District to join her from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23 at the Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road in Devon for an informal discussion about the vital role greenspaces play in maintaining the well-being of neighborhoods. Executive Director Tom Smarr will lead the discussion. Afterward, attendees are invited to stay for a self-guided tour of the beautiful grounds. “I look forward to listening to your concerns and discussing ways we can protect our greenspaces,” said Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery. “Not only are greenspaces good for the environment, but they also reduce stress and improve mental health. I hope you can join us.” Anyone with questions should contact Shusterman’s office at 484-200-8260 or RepShusterman@pahouse.net . Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens is a community supported botanical garden with 48 acres of gardens and woodland, 1.2 miles of trails, year-round educational programs and a Garden Shop. It’s open daily with free admission. Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development: Election Integrity Grant Program (Funding Source: General Fund) Who May Apply : Pennsylvania counties. Use : To support the work of county governments and their election offices. Funds : Funding is allocated proportionally based upon the number of registered voters within the county in the previous primary election. Application Deadline : August 15, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.esa.dced.state.pa.us/Login.aspx . Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: Rail Freight Assistance Program (Funding Source: Multimodal Transportation Fund) Who May Apply : Freight railroads, freight railroad-served shippers, and economic development entities. Use : To support investment in rail freight infrastructure. Funds : The maximum state funding for a RFAP project is 70 percent of the total project costs, not to exceed $700,000. Application Deadline : September 2, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.penndot.pa.gov/Doing-Business/RailFreightAndPorts/Pages/Grants-and-Loans.aspx . Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: Rail Transportation Assistance Program (Funding Source: General Obligation Debt) Who May Apply : Freight railroads, freight railroad-served Read more
PAOLI, Aug. 8 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, today applauded the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry’s decision to end waitlists for all significantly disabled and non-significantly disabled individuals seeking vocational rehabilitation services. “As co-chair of the Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Caucus and a member of the state Workforce Development Board, I consistently advocate for removing barriers that people with disabilities face when seeking employment,” Shusterman said. “I am pleased to see an end to the waitlist and am hopeful that it can remain open so more individuals will be able to gain career experiences and receive essential services.” L&I’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation assists Pennsylvanians with disabilities in obtaining and retaining employment while keeping their independence. Since 2016, nearly 370,000 individuals have received services from OVR, including vocational counseling, evaluations, medical diagnostic services, medical restoration services, employment training, placement services and career support services. L&I announced that this change is effective through June 30, 2023. OVR will then review the fiscal outlook and decide whether the services to all groups can remain open without the waitlist. More information on OVR services is available by visiting the local OVR office , or apply for OVR Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Office of the Budget: Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) (Funding Source: General Obligation Debt) Who May Apply : Entities that have a project itemized in a Capital Budget Itemization Act from the past 10 years. List of eligible projects can be found here: Itemized Project Eligible for Funding . Use : The acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects that have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs. Funds : Projects must have a $1 million minimum project cost and a 50% match (state funds cannot be used as match). Application Deadline : August 19, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.budget.pa.gov/Programs/RACP/Pages/Main%20Page.aspx . UPCOMING APPLICATION DEADLINES: DDAP Pregnancy Support Services Grant: July 29, 2022 (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Any entity that is able to serve pregnant or postpartum women in recovery from SUD. - To provide support services to pregnant women and postpartum women in recovery from Substance Use Disorder Read more
Thank you to all the veterans, their families, and the vendors that made my Annual Veterans BBQ a huge success. Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Pregnancy Support Services Grant (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who May Apply : Any entity that is able to serve pregnant or postpartum women in recovery from SUD. Use : To provide support services to pregnant women and postpartum women in recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Funds: Awards up to $600,000. Application Deadline : July 29, 2022. More Information : Click on https://www.ddap.pa.gov/Documents/Funding%20documents/GIFA%2022-03%20Pregnancy%20Support%20Service.pdf . Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection: Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant (Funding Source: General Fund) Who May Apply : School districts, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and businesses in Pennsylvania. Use : To assist in a transition to cleaner fuel transportation. Funds : Up to $300,000 per applicant. Application Deadline : There are two application periods. The program will collect and review all applications submitted by August 26, 2022, and again by December 16, 2022. More Information : Click on https://www.dep.pa.gov/Citizens/GrantsLoansRebates/Alternative-Fuels-Incentive-Grant/Pages/default.aspx . Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Statewide Victim Witness Training Project 2023 Read more
HARRISBURG, July 15 – State Reps. Jennifer O’Mara and Melissa Shusterman today announced Apprentice Training for the Electrical Industry was awarded $394,383 for a program introducing young women to the electrical trade. “More women are entering the electrical trade than ever before,” O’Mara said. “It can be a great career path, and I am pleased we were able to help secure this important funding. Having more women learn this important trade will help break down old, incorrect stereotypes.” The program, “Rosie’s Girls,” is designed to familiarize young women with safety, tools, theoretical basics of electrical and telecommunications installation, and jobsite conditions, as well as an introduction to other career paths in the building and construction trades. This is a partnership with ATEI and the public-school districts in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. “This program is a great way to give the young women in Southeastern Pennsylvania hands-on training in a career field once dominated by men,” Shusterman said. “I applaud the effort by Apprentice Training for the Electrical Industry to recruit women into the trades workforce. I am happy to see the state invest in a program that will help give young women more professional opportunities.” The grants, offered through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor Read more
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42 E. Lancaster AveUnit APaoli, PA 19301-1455
P*: (484) 200-8260
F*: (484) 200-8272
Hours of Operation - 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Need to meet outside of regular hours? Call (484)200-8260.
To access parking, turn on to Darby Rd from Lancaster Ave, then make the 2nd left into the parking lot. There’s a sign with my name and state seal on the office door. Park anywhere even though the spots are numbered and signs say bank parking only.
720 First AvenueBerwyn, PA 19312-1769
Hours of Operation - Third Tuesday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
111 Valley Park RoadPhoenixville, PA 19460-5700
Hours of Operation - Fourth Tuesday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
114 Irvis Office BuildingPO Box 202157Harrisburg, PA 17120-2157
P*: (717) 787-7524
F*: (717) 772-3074