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Brown’s Senior Expo Connects Hundreds of Residents with Valuable Resources

One of my favorite events each year is our Annual Senior Expo, and I was delighted to welcome so many members of our community to Swiftwater Elementary Center for this year’s event.

The expo brought together over 80 vendors of local organizations and service providers, giving seniors the opportunity to learn about valuable programs, ask questions, and connect with resources available throughout our region.

I want to extend my sincere thanks to the outstanding staff at Swiftwater Elementary Center for graciously hosting the event once again. I am also grateful to our vendors, exhibitors, volunteers, and my district office staff, whose hard work and dedication made the day a success.

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended. It is always a privilege to spend time with the seniors of the 40th Senatorial District, hear your concerns, and help connect you with the services and information you need. I appreciate everyone who made this year’s expo such a wonderful event, and I look forward to seeing you again next year.

Investing in the Future of PA College Students

The successful Grow PA Scholarship program invests in Pennsylvania students looking to pursue a college education, develops the future of our workforce and incentivizes jobs to remain here in the commonwealth.

Importantly, the program secures a commitment for students to stay and work in Pennsylvania communities after graduation, helping to address the state’s future economic and demographic challenges.

With demand rising for Grow PA scholarships, the Senate secured a $10 million funding increase for the program in the 2026-27 state budget – bringing the annual funding total to $42.5 million.

Grow PA, established in 2024, offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who pursue a degree or certification in an in-demand occupation and is administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. Learn more about this program here.

Standing Up for Rape Crisis Services

Rape crisis centers across Pennsylvania play a vital role in supporting victims of sexual violence, and I’m pleased that this year’s budget includes a historic $12 million increase for rape crisis centers.

The significant funding for rape crisis centers would not have been possible without the Senate pushing for support above the initial proposed budget.

With total state funding now amounting to nearly $25 million, this increase almost doubles the funding available for services, including 24-hour crisis hotlines, counseling, medical and legal advocacy, prevention education and accompaniment for survivors navigating hospitals, police investigations and court proceedings.

If you or someone you know have been the victim of sexual assault and need to access rape crisis services, click here to find a center located near you.

Supporting Families in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

Last year, I was proud to enact the law that established the Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Related Disorders (ADRD) Division within the Pennsylvania Department of Aging.

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” fundraiser and fashion show in Mount Pocono. Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia disorders have touched the lives of countless families throughout the 40th Senatorial District. As awareness grows, so does the need for meaningful resources, education, and support for caregivers and loved ones navigating these difficult diagnoses.

I am grateful to the organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who participated in this inspiring event. Together, we are helping advance research, raise awareness, and supporting families across our community.

Jermyn Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary

It was a pleasure to join the Jermyn community on Sunday afternoon for the borough’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

A special thank you to Jermyn Borough Mayor Stacey Cook, Borough Council, and the many dedicated volunteers who worked so hard to organize this outstanding event. Their commitment and community spirit made the celebration a tremendous success.

Stroudsburg Borough Honors Outstanding Community Heroes

I was pleased to attend the Stroudsburg Borough Heroes Dinner, an evening dedicated to recognizing some of the extraordinary individuals who make their community a better place.

Congratulations to this year’s award recipients:

• Volunteer of the Year – Charlie Frantz
  Charlie was recognized for his outstanding commitment to public service as Fire Chief and a Monroe County 911 Shift Supervisor. His dedication to protecting and serving our community is truly commendable.
• Community Connection Award – Jenny Bogart
  For more than 40 years, Jenny has faithfully served our community through Stroudsburg United Methodist Church, the weekly soup kitchen, the Community Resource Center, Scouting, youth sports, and the COTA Music Festival.
• Community Compassion Award – Daisy Medeiros
  As the founder of Mutual Aid of the Poconos, Daisy has built a remarkable network of neighbors helping neighbors and has touched countless lives through her compassion and leadership.

Congratulations as well to this year’s outstanding finalists – Erik Diemer, Jack & Jill Swersie, Amanda Counterman, and Vicki Weaver.

Thank you to Stroudsburg Borough for organizing this wonderful evening of recognition, and congratulations to all who were honored for their selfless service to our community.

Scenes of the 40^th District

This week’s photos are courtesy of Susan of Stroudsburg, featuring a peaceful fawn. These pictures have been shared on my social media and posted to the 40^th Senatorial District Photo Gallery.

I am inviting residents of the 40^th Senatorial District to share their photography and help capture the beauty and character of our community. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, a lively community event, or a cherished historical landmark, I encourage you to submit photos that highlight the unique aspects of our district, which includes parts of Lackawanna and Wayne counties, and all of Monroe County.

Click here to submit your work and learn more.

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