Dear Friends,

Did you know that many foster children are legally entitled to receive tens of thousands of dollars in federal public benefits such as Social Security survivor, veterans, and disability benefits? Unfortunately, many of these foster children never receive this support because of existing state guidelines under which counties may intercept and spend those federal benefits without telling the child or their representative.

Our Children and Youth Committee held a hearing to discuss this topic and the legislation that would bring more attention to address this issue. 

These benefits belong to orphaned and disabled foster children. Just as other foster children do not pay for their own costs of care or other county services, children who receive public benefits should not either. 

Following the lead of bipartisan legislatures across the country, Rep. Rick Krajewski introduced legislation which would allow counties to screen for, and conserve foster youth benefits in a savings account for when a foster youth exits care. This simple modification would ensure that more foster youths have savings to support critical needs such as housing, education and health care when they enter the workforce as an adult.

Working to Keep Young Women in School

My colleagues and I celebrated the incredible bipartisan support and $3 million in funding in the 2024-25 budget to provide free period products in all Pennsylvania public schools. Huge thanks to Governor Josh Shapiro for prioritizing this initiative, ensuring no young adult will have to miss school due to lack of access. A special shoutout to First Lady Lori Shapiro for joining us and continuing the fight alongside us. Together, we're making a difference!

I had the pleasure of meeting with Jan from Gift of Life to discuss the incredible work they do and how we can all contribute. ??

Did you know that one organ donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of 75 others through tissue and corneal donation? With over 7,000 Pennsylvanians currently waiting for lifesaving transplants, your decision to register as a donor can make a monumental difference.

Gift of Life is dedicated to educating and inspiring our community about the importance of organ and tissue donation. By raising awareness and encouraging registrations, we can help ensure that more lives are saved and improved each year.

Let’s unite and spread the word about the critical need for organ donation. Visit DonateLifePA.org to learn more and sign up today. Together, we can give the gift of life. ??

Upcoming Events!

???? You're invited to our Winter Holiday Open House! ????

Come on over and get to know me and my team at our festive gathering! We'll have light refreshments and a whole lot of holiday cheer. It's the perfect chance to see our cozy office and connect with us in person. See you there! ?????

Annual Dog Licensing Event

Calling all dog owners in the 151st! Join us for a pawsitively awesome Dog Licensing Event! ?? It's the perfect chance to make sure your furry friend is properly licensed and legal. Just bring your pup and any necessary documents, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Here’s the scoop on dog licenses in Montgomery County, PA:

Who needs it? All dogs three months and older.

Why get it? It's the law! Plus, it helps in identifying your pooch if they ever get lost.

How long does it last? You can choose between an annual or lifetime license.

What to bring? Proof of your dog’s rabies vaccination and, if applicable, proof of spaying/neutering.

Costs Involved?

Annual fee: $8.70

Senior citizen or person with disability annual fee: $6.70

Lifetime fee: $52.70

Senior citizen or person with disability annual fee: $36.70

Don't miss out — let’s make it a barking great time! ???

Have a great week,

Melissa Cerrato

Pennsylvania State Capitol

28-A East Wing

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 772-1999

District Office

605 Horsham Rd.
Horsham, PA 19044

(267) 282-6695