Winter in Pittsburgh can be beautiful, but it also brings real challenges. Cold temperatures, snow, rising utility bills, and higher grocery costs place added strain on many households already working hard to make ends meet — especially seniors and people with disabilities. This time of year is an important reminder that government entities, community organizations, and neighbors all have a role to play in ensuring everyone stays safe, warm, and healthy throughout the season.
One of the most important state resources available is the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides financial assistance for income eligible households to help pay heating bills or address heating emergencies, such as a broken furnace or a utility shutoff. Applications for LIHEAP are currently open, and I strongly encourage anyone who thinks they may qualify to apply as soon as possible. My district office is here to help. My staff can assist homeowners or renters in determining eligibility, gathering required documents, and navigating the application process. If you want to learn more, please email [email protected] or call (412) 321-5523. Helping constituents access programs like LIHEAP is a core part of our work.
Another state program to keep in mind is Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace created through the Affordable Care Act. Pennie offers quality health coverage options for individuals and families across the state. Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress failed to extend the health care subsidies that make coverage more affordable for Pennie enrollees. As a result, the cost of Pennie health plans is expected to rise significantly in 2026.
That said, if you are looking for health coverage, now is the best time to explore your options. Jan. 15 marks the end of Pennie’s open enrollment period, which occurs only once a year. I strongly encourage anyone who needs coverage to visit Pennie.com or contact the Pennie customer service center at (1-844) 844-8040 before the Jan. 15 deadline.
For older adults and residents with mobility issues, the City of Pittsburgh’s Snow Angels Program is a critical service and a wonderful example of neighbors helping neighbors. Through this program, volunteers assist seniors and people with disabilities by shoveling snow from sidewalks and walkways after winter storms. Residents who need help can sign up to receive assistance, and those who are able can volunteer to lend a hand. It’s a simple way to make a meaningful difference and help keep our community safe during the winter months. If you want to learn more, email [email protected] or check out the program on the city’s website.
Like every season, food insecurity remains a serious concern for too many families across Pennsylvania, especially in winter, when household budgets are stretched even thinner. I am deeply grateful for local food banks and pantries, such as North Hills Community Outreach and other partners of the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, that provide essential support. These organizations often step in quietly to help families put food on the table during difficult times.
If you or someone you know is struggling with access to food, please know that help is available. There is no shame in reaching out — these support systems exist because our community believes that everyone deserves to eat.
At the same time, I am working on policy solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity. I have introduced legislation to establish universal free school meals in Pennsylvania public schools and eliminate student meal debt. No child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, and a universal school meal program would ensure that every student has access to nutritious food throughout the school day.
In the 2025–26 state budget, we increased funding for anti-hunger programs across Pennsylvania by over $40 million. This progress matters and reflects a growing recognition of the scale of food insecurity in our state. But funding alone is not enough to eliminate hunger. Local food banks and pantries will continue to serve as a lifeline for many families, and they need our ongoing support.
Winter can be a challenging season, but it’s also a time when community matters most. My office is always here to help connect residents with resources or answer questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out at (412) 3215523 or email [email protected].
