Rep. Emily Kinkead January 10, 2025 | 4:31 PM
In this update:
TAKING THE OATH OF OFFICE
On Tuesday, I took the oath of office to officially begin my third term representing the good people of Avalon, Bellevue, Ross Township, West View, and parts of Pittsburgh’s 26th and 27th wards in the PA House of Representatives.
I’m eager to dive into the crafting the state budget over the next several months, as well as introducing bills to improve life for working families in Allegheny County and across the state. I’ll continue tackling issues like food insecurity, criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and of course, keep fighting to create a landslide insurance program, which would help so many property owners in our region.
Whenever I’m at our state Capitol, remember that my dedicated staff is still here at my district office in Bellevue to help you with any state-related issues.
EXPLORING THE 2025 PA FARM SHOW
I was lucky to spend time exploring all the fun at the PA Farm Show while I was in Harrisburg this week! There is so much excitement happening at this year’s show – from the butter sculpture, to goat snuggling, and everything in between. The show runs through Saturday so there’s still time to stop by if you haven’t yet.
An annual highlight of my Farm Show experience is the opportunity to chat with state Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding! We sat down to talk about his hopes for PA’s ag industry in 2025.
Click here or on the image above to watch our interview.
HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF AVIAN INFLUENZA
During my conversation with Secretary Redding, I brought up the rise of avian influenza and asked how Pennsylvanians in urban areas like Pittsburgh can help stop the spread.
If you have chickens or other domestic poultry on your property, please register your flock with the state Department of Agriculture. Knowing where flocks are located is extremely helpful to the department’s efforts to limit the spread of the virus. Call 717-772-2852 to report sick or dead domestic birds.
Remember to never handle wildlife that is sick or displaying signs of sickness. Report sick or dead wild birds to the Game Commission here.
EXPANDING ACCESS TO FRESH FOOD
Up to $4 million is available to expand food access through the Fresh Food Financing Initiative – a PA Department of Agriculture program that strengthens local food systems and increases market opportunities for PA farmers by providing grants that increase the availability of fresh and local foods in underserved and low-income or moderate-income communities.
Eligible entities must:
The deadline to apply is Jan. 18 – learn more and apply here.
DEFENDING OUR RIGHTS IN PA
I’m proud to again be named a Constitutional Champion by the ACLU of PA for the 2023-24 Legislative Session! As a state lawmaker, I’m committed to defending the constitutional rights of all Pennsylvanians.
See the grades of all 253 PA legislators on their website.
FREE WEBINARS FOR STUDENT LOANS AND FINANCIAL AID
Loan and behold – PHEAA (the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency) is hosting a series of free webinars for students and parents to provide a comprehensive overview of all things financial aid, scholarships, and school loans.
Use this link to register and get the details.
NEW GRANTS FOR EDUCATION AND MORE
Studies indicate that one in five undergraduate college students is balancing the responsibilities of raising children while pursuing a postsecondary education and almost half of these students do not earn a degree.
Funding is currently available from the state Department of Education’s Parent Pathways Grant program to help more of these parents pay for college. Postsecondary institutions must apply by Monday, Feb. 3.
Visit my website to see a list of state grant programs currently accepting applications. Remember that my staff and I are here to help you with the application process and can provide a letter of support.
RESOURCES FOR JOB SEEKERS
Are you looking for a career change? Inbox your way to a new job with the NorthSideWorks! monthly email on career opportunities in our area.
As you search for work, visit my website to access free employment resources like interview and resume tips designed to help job seekers.
LAST CHANCE TO SAVE MONEY ON HEALTH CARE
If you’re looking for high-quality health care at a low price, enroll in Pennie as soon as possible at pennie.com – the open enrollment period ends on Jan. 15. Contact my office if you have any questions or need assistance.
Pennie is the state’s official health care marketplace, helping thousands of Pennsylvanians save money at the doctor’s office every year.
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658 Lincoln AveBellevue, PA 15202-3420
P*: (412) 321-5523
Rep. Emily Kinkead's office is accessed behind H&R Block. Turn down Florence Ave. from Lincoln Ave. and make the first left into the parking lot.
116 B East WingHarrisburg, PA 17120-2020
P*: (717) 787-5470