Examining basic affordability and what it means for Chester County, housing

Rep. Paul Friel December 12, 2025 | 6:54 PM

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Dear Neighbor,

The recent cold weather and snow remind me to share my hope that everyone is ready to meet with winter again, and that those who fall on hard times can be served.

After federal decision makers cut November assistance under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, the program is back up. If you do not have heat due to trouble paying bills or because of repairs that you can’t afford, please apply for LIHEAP or contact my office for help applying.

Anyone can fall on hard times, and everyone deserves heat in Pennsylvania’s coldest months.

You might have noticed that many lawmakers are talking about affordability in America right now. It’s not just a buzz word – our constituent services offices hear heartbreaking stories about losing jobs, benefits, dead-end wages, working past retirement, unaffordable groceries and necessities, utilities hikes and more. Financial stress and fundamental issues over affording basic goods is a real problem.

That’s why I also hosted the House Policy Committee to a roundtable here in Chester County on the issue of housing affordability. We talked extensively with housing advocates and experts about what can be done to put more Pennsylvanians in homes affordably.

The stark reality of today's economy is that working families can no longer afford to buy a home in Chester County, and in many cases can't find an affordable rental. Secure and attainable housing should be within reach for the people who teach our children, protect our neighborhoods, and keep our local economy moving – but right now, it’s not. We owe it to them to fix that.

Read about what was discussed during the roundtable here.

Civic involvement can make you happier!

Did you know that studies consistently show that people who engage in civic life report higher life satisfaction, stronger social networks and better overall well-being?

I created a webpage that can help you get started making your voice heard. So many people have called and asked our office what they can do to fight for a society where there is liberty and justice for all, where every family has food on the table, and where the future is bright for our children. This is a list of ideas and resources, not an endorsement of any organization.

I hope you find it helpful.

Your gift of food means the world to someone

Finally, my office is still collecting food for the Coventry Food Pantry. Please stop by my office anytime between 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to drop off items for our neighbors in need.

If you have questions or would like to provide feedback on any legislative or state-related issue, please contact my district office at RepFriel@pahouse.net.

Sincerely,

Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit

Along with helping pass the state budget, I voted for a tax credit that puts money back in the pockets of hardworking Pennsylvanians. When you file for your 2025 federal and state taxes in 2026, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue will automatically calculate the state credit.

Anyone who qualifies for the federal EITC will now automatically qualify for the state credit, helping reduce taxes owed.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program deadline is Dec. 31

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania, and its deadline is coming up fast – Dec. 31!

Heating help is open for winter 2025-26

LIHEAP can help you keep your home warm and safe during the coldest seasons. If you are eligible, you can apply for a one-time cash grant to help pay your heating bill if you qualify.

PCCD funding boosts local projects, services

I’m pleased to announce that Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency funding was awarded to organizations across the state and Chester County this week. Here, from the 26th Legislative District, I congratulate our Chester County Government on bringing home state funding for programs and services for suicide prevention, addiction services, victims’ services and so much more.

Created in 1978, PCCD is the state’s lead agency for justice planning and policy. It brings together experts from criminal justice, juvenile justice and victim services to identify and solve problems and measure what works.

Visit here for the complete list of projects approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.

2026 Fishing Licenses, permits and gift vouchers on sale

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission reminds anglers and boaters that licenses, permits and vouchers for the upcoming 2026 season can be purchased easily at HuntFish.pa.gov or by visiting one of nearly 700 retail license issuing agents.

2026 licenses, permits and vouchers purchased now are valid immediately for up to 13 months, from Dec. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2026.

Customers can choose from annual or multi-year licenses and permits with 3, 5, and 10-year options. All documents may be printed immediately upon purchase or saved digitally to a smart device which serves as proof of possession.

PA 529: An easy gift for education

Pennsylvania has a convenient new way to help families save for education. Through a partnership with Gift of College, friends and relatives can now purchase digital gift cards that recipients can deposit directly into their PA 529 College and Career Savings Program accounts – no need to know whether an account already exists.

Gift cards are available at pa529.com/gift.

Anyone – parents, grandparents, and family friends – can contribute to a PA 529. Savings may be used for K-12 expenses, higher education, career credentials, and apprenticeship programs.