Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Feb. 21 e-mail: Supporting older Pennsylvanians within the Legislature

Feb. 21 e-mail: Supporting older Pennsylvanians within the Legislature

Dear Friends,

 

The PA House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee hosted an important informational meeting! ?????? It was an essential session focused on the challenges and solutions for supporting our senior community. We heard from an amazing panel, which included:

  • JR Reed: executive director, Lehigh County Office of Aging & Adult Services; board president, PA Association of Area Agencies on Aging (P4A)
  • Beth Herold: director, Butler County Area Agency on Aging; board vice president, PA Association of Area Agencies on Aging (P4A)
  • Rebecca May-Cole: executive director, PA Association of Area Agencies on Aging (P4A)

 Some of the key points I walked away with were:

  • Vital Services Provided by Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)s: These include safety, meal delivery, health promotion, senior centers, and in-home care. Since FY 2018-19 (pre-COVID), AAAs have seen significant increases in in-home care, meal delivery, waiting lists, and personnel costs.
  • Impact of Funding Shortfalls: Without the necessary funding, approximately 40 senior centers may close, 100 programs could be eliminated, and staffing hours may be reduced or left vacant. 92% of AAAs face a budgetary shortfall this year. Programs at risk for reduction include personal emergency response systems, programs at senior centers, meal delivery, and personal care.
  • Pennsylvania's Aging Population: Our state is home to 3.4 million older adults. The 60+ PA population is 3,685,746.
  • Funding Disparity: A growing gap between state funding and the increasing population of individuals aged 60+ from 2010 to 2030. The 2024-25 Penncare allocation is $287,848,000, but given inflation and the projected Penncare allocation, AAAs need an additional $105 million to serve the growing population at pre-COVID levels, resulting in a total Penncare allocation of $392,848,000 for the FY 2025-26 budget.

I will continue to support our older Pennsylvanians and advocate for my colleagues to do the same to ensure our seniors receive the care and services they deserve! ??

Troop PA

It was a true honor to join the Girl Scouts for their Troop PA event! Troop PA is the premier statewide Girl Scout event, held once every Legislative Session, and it brings together Girl Scouts, troop leaders, and influential female members of the PA House and Senate. This inspiring gathering celebrates the invaluable contributions Girl Scouts make to our Commonwealth, fostering leadership, resilience, and community spirit in young women across Pennsylvania.

Events like these remind us of the importance of empowering the next generation of female leaders. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for all. Let's celebrate the incredible impact of Girl Scouts and the dedicated individuals who support them!

Upcoming Events

???? Join Us for a Lifesaving Blood Drive! ????

?? The Ukrainian American Sport Center - Tryzub / Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals and the American Red Cross are teaming up for an incredible cause! ??

 

Be a hero and give the gift of life!

 

?? Drive Details:

 

Location: The Ukrainian American Sport Center (drive held inside the Banquet Room)
1 Lower State Rd, North Wales, PA, 19454


Date: Monday, February 24, 2024


Time: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM

The need for blood is constant, and YOU can make a difference! Did you know? Every 2 to 3 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, and most of us will need it in our lifetime. Let’s come together and support our community. ??

 

?? Schedule your appointment today and be part of something amazing! ??

?? Attention Seniors! ??

We're hosting a Property Tax/Rent Rebate Assistance Event to help you file your Pennsylvania PTRR for the 2024 tax year! ??? Join us and get the assistance you need.

 

?? Date: March 6, 2025 ?? Time: 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. ?? Location: Montgomery Township Community and Recreation Center (1030 Horsham Road, Montgomeryville)

 

Our team will be there to guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have. Make sure to bring the necessary documents:

  • 2024 Proof of Income (SSA-1099, W2's, Pension 1099-R, etc.)
  • 2024 Proof of Property Taxes showing paid in full
  • If you rent, a completed and signed Rent Certificate (RC-1000)

For more information, contact us at 267-282-6695 or RepCerrato@pahouse.net. Don't miss out on this opportunity!

College Prep Night

Join us for College Prep Night to get valuable information on:

•    PA 529 Plan
•    Financial Aid
•    Scholarships
•    FAFSA Application/Deadlines
•    Finding the right fit for you!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to prepare for your future! ????

Shredding and Electronics Recycling All in One

Join us for a fantastic opportunity to declutter your home and protect your personal information at our Free Shredding and Electronics Recycling Event! This event offers a convenient way to safely dispose of your old documents and electronic devices. Not only will you be helping the environment by recycling, but you'll also be ensuring your sensitive information doesn't fall into the wrong hands. Plus, it's a great chance to support local food banks by bringing non-perishable food items for donation. Don't miss out on this chance to make a positive impact in your community!

Have a great week,

PA Representative Melissa Cerrato's signature image
 

Pennsylvania State Capitol

28-A East Wing

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 772-1999

District Office

605 Horsham Rd.
Horsham, PA 19044

(267) 282-6695