Compassion in Action

Rep. Melissa Cerrato July 24, 2026

Dear Friends,

I had planned to continue sharing updates about Pennsylvania’s newly passed budget this week, but we were called back to Harrisburg for session, so I will return to the budget next week. In the meantime, I want to highlight some of the meaningful people, organizations, and advocates I had the opportunity to connect with at the Capitol.

If you know me, you know I am always thrilled to see an adorable pup and will never pass up the chance to give one a little love. But meeting Phoebe was different.

Phoebe is a survivor of animal testing. Behind her sweet face lies a heartbreaking story—one shared by far too many beagles and other animals who have endured unimaginable suffering. Looking into her eyes is to feel the urgency of this work.

Phoebe’s story should move us, but it should also motivate us. Compassion cannot stop at feeling sad. It has to become action.

I am hopeful. The voices of advocates, survivors like Phoebe, and everyone who believes animals deserve better can move meaningful legislation forward—to protect these dogs and spare countless others from suffering in silence.

Phoebe deserved better. They all do. And together, we have the power to do better.

I was also proud to stand with advocates, survivors, and community partners who are working every day to end domestic violence and support those impacted by it.

This issue is deeply personal to me. Like far too many families, mine has been touched by domestic violence—the pain, the fear, the lasting trauma. It changes lives. Often behind closed doors. And far too often, in silence.

That is why advocacy matters. We must keep listening to survivors. Strengthening protections. Investing in essential services. And making sure every person knows they are not alone—and that help is available.

To the advocates who do this work every day, I offer my deepest gratitude. Your compassion, courage, and persistence save lives. I will continue standing with you and fighting for a Commonwealth where every person and family can live free from violence and fear.

Finally, by now it is probably no surprise that I absolutely adore the work Mitzvah Circle does in our community. Their team shows up for families with compassion, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to providing the essentials people need to get through difficult moments.

What I also deeply admire is the advocacy they bring to Harrisburg. They understand that meeting immediate needs is critical, but they also know we cannot stop there—we must keep pushing for policies and resources that prevent families from falling through the cracks in the first place.

It was especially meaningful to spend time with their intern—who is learning firsthand what service, advocacy, and community care look like in action. Seeing young people step into this work with such heart gives me tremendous hope for the future.

Thank you to Mitzvah Circle for everything you do in our district and across the Commonwealth. Your work matters. Your advocacy matters. Our community is simply stronger because of you.

Although these conversations focused on different issues, they were all connected by one important message: compassion must lead to action. Whether we are protecting animals, supporting survivors, or helping families through difficult times, each of us has a role to play in building a safer, stronger, and more caring Commonwealth.

It is an honor to carry these stories and priorities with me as I continue working on your behalf in Harrisburg.

Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars, HD 151! ??

We have a busy fall ahead with several great community events coming up, and I would love to see you there. From veterans resources and paper shredding to e-waste recycling, family resources, college prep, and our holiday open house, there is something for everyone.

Save the dates, share with your neighbors, and come out to take advantage of these helpful community resources.

Hope to see you this fall! ??