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Guzman touts more than $185,000 investment to help revitalize Reading

(6 hours ago)

READING, Oct. 20 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today commended more than $185,000 in funding for Reading through Pennsylvania’s City Revitalization and Improvement Zone program , marking the city’s first award through the initiative. Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Secretary Pat Browne announced that Reading, Erie, Lancaster, Bethlehem and Tamaqua will receive funding through the program. Reading will receive $185,057.97. The program has helped participating cities advance downtown revitalization and economic development. Reading and Erie are receiving funding for the first time after Gov. Josh Shapiro reopened the program following more than a decade without new funding opportunities. “I’ve long advocated for Reading to benefit from the CRIZ program, and I’m proud to see more than $185,000 coming to our city for the first time through this initiative. Revitalization doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, collaboration and sustained effort,” Guzman said. “This funding can help attract businesses, revitalize downtown and put underutilized properties back to productive use, creating new opportunities for Reading’s economy,” Guzman said. The CRIZ funding is based on activity from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2025. CRIZ zones can encompass up to 130 acres and are selected based on their potential to generate significant economic improvements. The Reading CRIZ is Read more

 

¡Cerca de $700,000 en fondos de subvenciones para nuestra comunidad!

(Oct 15, 2026)

Cumbre Económica Latina del Corredor 222 La semana pasada, participé junto a mis colegas del Caucus Legislativo Latino de Pensilvania en la Cumbre Económica Latina del Corredor 222, organizada por la Cámara de Comercio Latina del Condado de Berks. La cumbre reunió a líderes empresariales, educativos y del sector laboral de toda la región para dialogar sobre las contribuciones económicas de la comunidad latina y las oportunidades que podemos crear mediante la colaboración regional, el fortalecimiento de alianzas y un mayor acceso a recursos para los emprendedores y negocios latinos. Día de acción en la Biblioteca Pública de Reading Me alegró acompañar el sábado pasado a la primera dama de Pennsylvania, Lori Shapiro, y a otros funcionarios electos en Period Action Day, celebrado en la Biblioteca Pública de Reading, aquí mismo en el distrito que represento. El evento, organizado conjuntamente por la Oficina de la Primera Dama y Help a Girl Out USA, reunió a nuestra comunidad para recolectar, preparar y distribuir productos menstruales a quienes los necesitan. El acceso a productos menstruales nunca debería ser un obstáculo para la educación de un estudiante. En todo el país, uno de cada cuatro estudiantes ha Read more

 

Grant Memo: Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Oct 15, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Labor and Industry: Future Works Who May Apply: Local Workforce Development Boards Use: To strengthen Pennsylvania’s workforce and economic competitiveness by supporting workforce development strategies that help new or expanding businesses build a skilled workforce, address talent needs, and establish a foundation for long-term success Funds: $2,000,000 is available in funds and the Department of Labor and Industry expects to award four grants of up to $500,000. Application Deadline: December 9, 2026 More information: L&I Website Labor and Industry: Veteran Employment Program Who May Apply: Local workforce development boards, non-profit and non-governmental entities, community-based organizations, education and post-secondary organizations, labor organizations, business associations, and economic development entities who can serve veterans and spouses. Use: To enhance Pennsylvania’s capacity to support veterans as they transition into meaningful civilian careers Funds: $200,000 is available and the Department of Labor and Industry expects to award one grant Application Deadline: November 10, 2026 More information: L&I Website Labor and Industry: Veteran Employment Program – Delaware County Who May Apply: Local workforce development boards, non-profit and non-governmental entities, community-based Read more

 

Shusterman, Guzman and Scott to participate in AI safety hearing

(Oct 13, 2026)

“I look forward to joining my colleagues and experts in AI research and safety for this important discussion on the risks posed by frontier AI models,” Guzman said. “We need clear safety standards, robust accountability frameworks, and greater transparency to ensure developers identify, assess, and address potential risks before deploying their systems. Innovation and public safety must go hand in hand.” Read more

 

Route 222 corridor, Latino businesses fuel regional, state economy

(Oct 09, 2026)

“The Route 222 corridor has experienced a vast demographic transformation, and it has benefitted from this growth economically,” said state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, who represents portions of Berks County and serves as the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus chair. “Our young Latino population has faced challenges and obstacles, yet we have persevered to create better lives and stronger, safer neighborhoods.” Read more

 

Guzman secures nearly $700,000 awarded in grants for five local conservation projects

(Oct 07, 2026)

READING, Oct. 7 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today announced that five local projects will receive nearly $700,000 in grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnership Program. "I’m proud to help secure nearly $700,000 in grant funding,” Guzman said. “These investments will support trail improvements, park development, and other projects that protect and enhance our community’s green spaces. It’s rewarding to see the hard work and advocacy behind these efforts have turned into clear results, with this funding coming directly to our community,” Guzman added. The grants were awarded to: Berks Nature - $43,100 for the development of the Solution Trail in Cumru and Lower Alsace townships, Berks County. Work will include construction of approximately 1.3 miles of trail, ADA access, landscaping, project sign, and other related site improvements. Cumru Township - $81,800 to prepare a Comprehensive Recreation, Park, Open Space and Greenway Plan for Cumru Township, Berks County. Schuylkill River Greenway Association - $69,300 for the development of the Schuylkill River Trail in Robeson Township, Berks County. Work will include rehabilitation of approximately 1.15 miles of trail from Seyfert Drive to New Gibraltar Road and stormwater management measures; ADA access, landscaping, Read more

 

¿Tienes preguntas sobre los Skill Games? Acompáñame este jueves

(Oct 05, 2026)

¿Tienes preguntas sobre los Skill Games? Acompáñame este jueves Si eres dueño de un negocio, empleado, distribuidor, fabricante, representante de una organización o cualquier persona afectada por la incertidumbre sobre el futuro de los Skill Games en Pennsylvania, sé que tienes preguntas. Con el período actual de 120 días establecido tras la decisión de la Corte Suprema de Pennsylvania a punto de vencer el 13 de octubre, quiero escucharte directamente. Acompáñame a conversar sobre los Skill Games, hacer preguntas, compartir tus inquietudes y aportar tus ideas mientras la Asamblea General continúa trabajando en este tema. Este evento se llevará a cabo el Jueves, 8 de octubre a las 6:00 p. m. en Reverb Club, ubicado en 1402 N. 9th Street, Reading, PA. ¿Estás listo para votar? Guarda estas fechas y prepárate para las próximas Elecciones Generales del 3 de noviembre de 2026. Día de las elecciones: Las urnas estarán abiertas de 7 a. m. a 8 p. m. Fecha límite para registrarte para votar: 19 de octubre Fecha límite para solicitar una boleta por correo o en ausencia: 27 de octubre Infórmate, participa y haz que se escuche tu voz. Explora los programas de alimentos Read more

 

Explore programas de alimentos disponibles para usted y para su familia

(Sep 24, 2026)

Explore programas de alimentos disponibles para usted y para su familia Si usted o alguien en su hogar tiene dificultades para acceder a alimentos, hay ayuda disponible. Ningún residente de Pensilvania debería pasar hambre; busca apoyo a través de los siguientes recursos: dhs.pa.gov/SNAP www.pa-navigate.org feedingpa.org dhs.pa.gov/Ending-Hunger pawic.com Una inversión de $625,000 en Reading Area Community College Me complace dar la bienvenida a esta importante inversión de $625,000 en Reading Area Community College. Estos fondos ayudarán a mejorar las instalaciones que nuestros estudiantes y maestros utilizan todos los días. Más de $1 millón en subvenciones para cinco proyectos locales Me enorgullece ver más de $1 millón en subvenciones llegar a Cumru, Shillington, Kenhorst y otras comunidades de nuestro distrito. Estas inversiones permitirán realizar mejoras muy necesarias, fortalecer nuestra infraestructura y contribuir al crecimiento de nuestras comunidades. Celebrando nuestra cultura, comunidad y herencia El sábado pasado fue un día especial en Reading, donde me uní a nuestra comunidad para celebrar El Boricuazo 2026 en GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. Read more

 

Grant Memo: Transportation, Agricultural, Community Development and Additional Grant Opportunities for your District

(Sep 23, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Transportation: Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) Who May Apply: Municipality, council of governments, business/non-profit, economic development organization, public transportation agency, port or rail/freight entity Use: The MTF provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure a safe and reliable system of transportation exists in Pennsylvania. The program is intended to provide financial assistance in order to improve public transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. Funds: Project costs must be above $100,000 and no award shall exceed $3,000,000 Application Deadline: October 30, 2026 More information: PennDOT Website Department of Agriculture: Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Program Who May Apply: A person operating under a grant of inspection that meets the definition of ''very small establishment'' in 9 CFR 381.65(g)(1)(i) Use: To support the development and expansion of current or future very small meat and poultry processing operations in this Commonwealth by offering reimbursement grants to cover the cost associated with obtaining a grant of inspection from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS), opening a new very small meat and poultry processing operation, expanding the capacity of a Read more

 

Salvation Army of Eastern PA awarded $250K to expand program aiding human trafficking victims

(Sep 23, 2026)

The Salvation Army of Eastern Pennsylvania has been awarded a state grant of $250,000 to expand an effective program that helps victims of human trafficking. Read more

 

Summer-Fall Newsletter 2026

(Sep 16, 2026)

As we enter the final months of the year, I am proud of the progress we’vemade together in the 127th Legislative District.This year, I have worked in Harrisburg to advance priorities that matter toour community, including transportation, workforce development, education, consumer protection, and health care. Read more

 

Guzman welcomes $625,000 million in grants for Reading Area Community College

(Sep 16, 2026)

READING, Sept. 16 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today announced that Reading Area Community College will receive a $625,000 investment through the state’s College Capital Improvements program. “It is really gratifying to see these investments in our community colleges because they will help strengthen the facilities our students rely on every day,” Guzman said. “Community colleges expand educational opportunities, support workforce development, and help prepare students for the future. Investing in these institutions is an investment in our students, our workforce and the continued progress of our region.” The awarded grants are: $475,000 for compaction grouting at the Schmidt Training and Technology Center. $150,000 for a fire pump at Berks Hall. Read more

 

Guzman secures more than $1 million in LSA grants for five local projects

(Sep 15, 2026)

READING, Sept. 15 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today announced that five local projects will receive more than $1.13 million in grant funding through the state’s Local Share Account program. "These investments are a great boost for infrastructure, safety of operations, and economic growth. I am proud to continue bringing resources to our communities," said Guzman. “The projects that will benefit from this grant funding are vital to moving our communities forward.” The grants were awarded to: Berks County DES HazMat - $75,000 for the replacement of a hazardous materials vehicle and upfits for use countywide. The project proposes replacing a vehicle that has reached the end of its useful life and no longer meets the operational, safety, or reliability needs of the county’s emergency response system. Cumru Township Lancaster - $350,000 to develop a master site plan for Lancaster Pike in Cumru Township. Although the pike serves as the gateway into Cumru Township, it has suffered from disinvestment and fragmented development patterns since the construction of Route 222. The plan's goal is to aid the township in turning the pike into a thriving gateway and economic engine that includes residential, retail, office, and public spaces. Kenhorst Borough - $149,999 for upgrades to the borough hall. Reading Area Water Authority - $350,600 to purchase a hydrovac Read more

 

Community Development, Fire & EMS, Environmental and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Sep 10, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commonwealth Financing Authority: Local Share Account Statewide Who May Apply: Counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, economic development agencies, redevelopment authorities, land banks, or councils of government. Non-profits may partner with an eligible applicant to apply on their behalf. Use: Projects in the public interest. Projects that improve the quality of life of citizens in the community. Eligible projects must be owned and maintained by an eligible applicant or a nonprofit organization. Funds: The PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act provides for the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects in the public interest. Grant requests must be at a minimum $25,000 and no more than $1,000,000. Application Deadline: November 30, 2026 More information: DCED Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: 2026 PACTT – PA Academic, Career and Technical Training Who May Apply: All existing residential facilities, community-based providers, and juvenile probation departments that are current PACTT Affiliates in good standing and are not on provisional status Use: To advance academic and career/technical training among adjudicated youth receiving services in either residential facilities or from community-based providers or from County Juvenile Probation Departments that are PACTT affiliates Read more

 

Conoce al estudiante que representará nuestro distrito en Congress Hall

(Sep 07, 2026)

Todo listo para una histórica sesión en Filadelfia Tengo noticias emocionantes que compartir con nuestra comunidad. Este miércoles, 9 de septiembre , la Cámara de Representantes de Pensilvania se reunirá en Congress Hall, en Filadelfia, para una sesión especial que conmemora los 250 aniversarios de la Declaración de Independencia y de la Constitución de Pensilvania. Congress Hall es también el lugar donde se debatieron la Constitución de los Estados Unidos y la Carta de Derechos. Para mí, este es un momento muy especial como representante estatal. Además, tengo el honor de llevar a un estudiante de nuestra comunidad para que participe en The Next 250, una iniciativa de educación cívica que reunirá a más de 80 estudiantes de todo el estado para aprender sobre el gobierno estatal, nuestra democracia y el papel de Pensilvania en la formación de nuestra nación. Trabajando junto a Governor Mifflin High School, seleccioné a Kuljeet Sangha, de 17 años, quien vive en Shillington, en el área de Cumru, para que sirva como delegado juvenil de nuestro distrito en la sesión legislativa del 9 de septiembre en Congress Hall. Desde su rol como Presidente de Clase y Co-Presidente de NHS, hasta ser capitán de los equipos de fútbol y tenis, Kuljeet se ha ganado una reputación como Read more

 

Conoce programas y servicios que el estado tiene para ti

(Sep 03, 2026)

Con motivo del Día del Trabajo, nuestra oficina de distrito cerrará mañana viernes al mediodía y reabrirá el martes. Les deseo a todos un feliz y seguro fin de semana del Día del Trabajo. ¿Estás listo para votar? Guarda estas fechas y prepárate para las próximas Elecciones Generales del 3 de noviembre de 2026. Día de las elecciones: Las urnas estarán abiertas de 7 a. m. a 8 p. m. Fecha límite para registrarte para votar: 19 de octubre Fecha límite para solicitar una boleta por correo o en ausencia: 27 de octubre Infórmate, participa y haz que se escuche tu voz. ¿Usted o un ser querido necesitan un placa de estacionamiento para personas con discapacidad? ¡Estoy aquí para facilitarle este proceso! Ya sea la primera vez que solicita la placa o necesite renovarla, nuestra oficina puede ayudarle. Llame hoy al (610) 376-1529 para recibir asistencia y obtener más información. ¡Oportunidades de subvenciones ya disponibles! Hay nuevas oportunidades de subvenciones disponibles para agricultores, escuelas, organizaciones sin fines de lucro, municipios y empresas en todo Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Economic Development, Nonprofit Security, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Aug 26, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Agriculture: Fruit Grower Freeze Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant Program Who May Apply: Specialty crop growers who experienced a loss of at least 30% of expected production due to freezing temperatures between April 1, 2026 and April 21, 2026 Use: Grants will be awarded on a per-acre basis to help growers recover from lost crops Funds: $10 million in funding is available Application Deadline: September 21, 2026 More information: PDA Website Department of Agriculture: Pennsylvania Agriculture Innovation Grant Program Who May Apply: A person who grows an agricultural commodity and who has anticipated sales greater than $2,000 per year, a person who processes an agricultural commodity and has anticipated sales greater than $10,000 per year, a person who provides technical assistance or services to farmers for conservation, engineering, veterinary care, animal disease management, farm management, agricultural commodity production, nutrient management or similar services, or a person or cooperative association that utilizes agricultural commodities to create products or energy Use: Grants will reimburse expenses for project planning, on-site project implementation, and larger grants for projects that have a regional impact. Funds: $10 million in funding is available Application Deadline: September 23, 2026 More information: PDA Website Read more

 

Conéctate con Mi Oficina y Descubre Recursos para tu Familia

(Aug 21, 2026)

Una celebración comunitaria para el regreso a clases El miércoles pasado, en colaboración con el alcalde Eddie Moran, celebramos nuestra quinta edición del Back-to-School Resource & Giveaway , ¡y la emoción se sintió por todo lo alto! Rompimos nuestro propio récord al distribuir alrededor de 1,200 mochilas , ofrecer 135 cortes de cabello y servicios de peinado , y realizar evaluaciones de la vista para muchas familias a lo largo del día. Con cerca de 60 socios comunitarios participando, la respuesta dejó algo muy claro: este es el evento de regreso a clases más grande del condado de Berks, donde las familias pueden encontrar programas y servicios locales y estatales en un solo lugar. Gracias a todos nuestros socios comunitarios y a cada familia que nos acompañó e hizo posible este gran día. $37,056 en Fondos Estatales para Apoyar a Nuestros Estudiantes Me complace anunciar $37,056 en fondos estatales para los distritos escolares de Reading y Governor Mifflin, que permitirán proporcionar productos menstruales esenciales a los estudiantes de manera gratuita durante el año escolar 2026–27. Mi compromiso es seguir trabajando para traer recursos estatales a nuestros estudiantes y escuelas y asegurar que nuestra comunidad aproveche los fondos Read more

 

Guzman to host Back-to-School Resource Fair with Mayor Eddie Moran this Wednesday

(Aug 17, 2026)

READING, Aug. 17 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that he will host the fifth annual Back-to-School Resource Fair this Wednesday. He is partnering with Reading Mayor Eddie Moran to provide information and free school supplies to students as they prepare to return to school. Guzman said the fair, now in its fifth year, has more than 55 community partners that have stepped up to support Reading students and families. The event will feature school supplies available on a first-come, first-served basis, free haircuts for children, refreshments, and information about state and local programs and services. “I am proud of all the work we have put into this fair. It has become the largest back-to-school event in Berks County, and that is truly rewarding to see. One of the important additions this year will be free vision screenings, along with glasses repairs and adjustments. This event gives families access to a wide range of resources and services all in one place, and we are eager to welcome them,” Guzman said. “This is a way to offer immediate assistance to families who may need extra support getting their children ready for the new school year. We want to make the process a little easier for parents. There will also be free parking provided by Shuman Development Group at the 6th & Cherry Street lot. “We are going above and beyond to make this an incredible experience. Attendance has grown so much Read more

 

¡Solo falta una semana para la quinta Feria de Regreso a Clases!

(Aug 13, 2026)

¡El próximo miércoles! Quinta Feria de Recursos y Regreso a Clases ¡Se acerca nuestra quinta edición del Back-to-School Resource & Giveaway! No se pierdan este día especial para los estudiantes y las familias de Reading, con mochilas y útiles escolares gratis, alimentos, cortes de cabello, recursos comunitarios, actividades y mucho más. Miércoles, 19 de agosto | 10 a. m. – 1 p. m. The Courtyard, 644 Penn Street, Reading ESTACIONAMIENTO GRATIS en el lote de 6th & Cherry Street ¡Gracias a nuestros increíbles socios comunitarios! Nuestra quinta Feria de Recursos y Regreso a Clases no sería posible sin el apoyo de cerca de 50 organizaciones y empresas , ¡y la lista sigue creciendo! Invitamos a toda la familia a acompañarnos en un día dedicado a apoyar a nuestros estudiantes y a nuestra comunidad mientras nos preparamos para un nuevo año escolar exitoso. Miércoles, 19 de agosto | 10 a. m. – 1 p. m. The Courtyard, 644 Penn Street, Reading ESTACIONAMIENTO GRATIS en el lote de 6th & Cherry Street ¿Te interesa asistir o convertirte en socio comunitario? Llámanos al 610-376-1529 o escribe a RepGuzman@pahouse.net . $16,200 para impulsar la innovación Read more

 

Guzman touts more than $185,000 investment to help revitalize Reading
6 hours ago

¡Cerca de $700,000 en fondos de subvenciones para nuestra comunidad!
Oct 15, 2026

Grant Memo: Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Oct 15, 2026

Shusterman, Guzman and Scott to participate in AI safety hearing
Oct 13, 2026

Route 222 corridor, Latino businesses fuel regional, state economy
Oct 09, 2026

Guzman secures nearly $700,000 awarded in grants for five local conservation projects
Oct 07, 2026

¿Tienes preguntas sobre los Skill Games? Acompáñame este jueves
Oct 05, 2026

Explore programas de alimentos disponibles para usted y para su familia
Sep 24, 2026

Grant Memo: Transportation, Agricultural, Community Development and Additional Grant Opportunities for your District
Sep 23, 2026

Salvation Army of Eastern PA awarded $250K to expand program aiding human trafficking victims
Sep 23, 2026

Summer-Fall Newsletter 2026
Sep 16, 2026

Guzman welcomes $625,000 million in grants for Reading Area Community College
Sep 16, 2026

Guzman secures more than $1 million in LSA grants for five local projects
Sep 15, 2026

Community Development, Fire & EMS, Environmental and Additional Grant Opportunities
Sep 10, 2026

Conoce al estudiante que representará nuestro distrito en Congress Hall
Sep 07, 2026

Conoce programas y servicios que el estado tiene para ti
Sep 03, 2026

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Economic Development, Nonprofit Security, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Aug 26, 2026

Conéctate con Mi Oficina y Descubre Recursos para tu Familia
Aug 21, 2026

Guzman to host Back-to-School Resource Fair with Mayor Eddie Moran this Wednesday
Aug 17, 2026

¡Solo falta una semana para la quinta Feria de Regreso a Clases!
Aug 13, 2026