Social Workers Hand Rep. Shusterman National Award

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — A national social workers association singled out a local legislator for an award that recognizes the outstanding service and contributions of an elected official.

The National Association of Social Workers recently named Pennsylvania State Rep. Melissa Shusterman (D-157th) Legislator of the Year, saying she is a "voice of the people."

"We appreciate her commitment to tackling social inequality, including her efforts on college students experiencing homelessness, expansion of expungement, and addressing food deserts," the NASW said in a statement regarding the award.

Shusterman has a record of addressing issues both through legislation and action, the Association said. "Rep. Shusterman addresses problems not only through legislation but also helps constituents through her district office and hosts public events and media promotions to bring awareness to the issues," said NASW.

The award recognizes outstanding service and contributions of an elected official. NASW said Shusterman won the award because she has been a voice of the people. The organization explained it believes that legislators represent society's collective values and recognize when they enact policies that fight for social justice and against injustice.

This legislative session Shusterman and PA Rep. Hill-Evans introduced the Child and Adult Care Food Program Supplement, which would provide funds for food to care facilities for children and adults.

"Care facilities across the state deal with incredibly high operating costs," Shusterman said. "Unfortunately, the federal program meant to help them feed our neediest citizens does not go nearly far enough to alleviate the extraordinary costs they face. It’s time for Pennsylvania to supplement this vital program."

According to the PA Department of Education's website, participating facilities are eligible to be reimbursed for up to two meals and one snack per participant, per day. The new bill introduced by Shusterman and Hill-Evans would expand that.

Hill-Evans said, "By ensuring our care facilities have adequate funding, we would enable more Pennsylvanians to enter the workforce."

Shusterman also introduced legislation to combat littering, promote recycling and was a co-sponsor on a bill called the LEVEL UP for ID/A Act.

LEVEL UP for ID/A would change provider payments based on outcomes of individuals with disabilities and autism, instead of services provided. The bill has many components which are all directed at improving the quality of life of individuals with autism and other disabilities, said NASW.

Shusterman responded to the NASW recognition, saying, "I am honored to have an ally in the National Association of Social Workers as we march toward a kinder, more caring world. I thank them for this recognition, and much more importantly I thank them for their essential work."

Food Drive Coming Up In Phoenixville

Shusterman and PA Sen. Carolyn Comitta (PA-19th) are organizing a food drive to benefit residents, families, and seniors in need in the Phoenixville area.

Donations can be dropped at Phoenixville Area Community Services (PACS), located at 101 Buchanan Street in Phoenixville, on Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon. Drive-through contactless drop-off is available, a news release said.

"Food insecurity has the potential to affect anyone," Shusterman said. "I am so pleased to partner with Senator Comitta to facilitate this food drive to help those in need. No one deserves to go hungry, and I know our community is eager to support our most vulnerable."

Comitta added, "Food insecurity has become a greater concern for many households during this pandemic. No family should have to worry about putting food on the table. I appreciate PACS and all our local agencies for working to support and uplift Chester County families during these difficult times. As we approach the holidays, I encourage those who can to donate, volunteer, or help out in any way possible. Together, we can ensure that the joy of the holiday season reaches every corner of the community."

Since 1972, Phoenixville Area Community Services, a registered nonprofit organization has served as a food pantry, meal provider, referral service, and food security resource for residents of Phoenixville and the surrounding region.

At the onset of the pandemic in 2020, their work was more important than ever. PACS received over 45,000 requests for food, five times their usual requests for assistance. PACS has also served to assist over twelve local agencies and nonprofits with food security concerns.

Learn more about the PACS mission or how to donate here.

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