Dear John,

Fall is officially here, and I'm excited to share some updates on what I've been working on for the Inland Empire. 

Despite the ongoing chaos caused by House Republicans, I remain focused on delivering for our community and bringing more federal resources back home for the hardworking folks in our region.

 $2.5 MILLION FOR CSUSB SCHOLARSHIP

I am thrilled to announce $2.5 million for a new scholarship program for Cal State University, San Bernardino students. This funding will be used to create 150 scholarships over five years to support students pursuing a degree in computer science.  

I’ve always believed that higher education should be an option for everyone, regardless of your background or economic status. I will always fight to help Inland Empire students achieve their dreams.

FIRST-EVER FEDERAL PROGRAM FOR ANIMAL SHELTER FUNDING

Last week, I introduced the first-ever bill to create a federal grant program to provide funding for animal shelters. The Supporting Our Shelters Act will let publicly run shelters across the country apply for federal funds to help with the daily operations of their facilities to enhance animal care and well-being.  I look forward to seeing this bill become law, so that pets like Mookie [pictured] can receive the highest-quality treatment while waiting for their forever homes.

CREATING CAREER PATHWAYS

As we approach winter break for many high schoolers, I hosted a Skilled Trades and Apprenticeships Fair for our region’s students to help them discover potential career pathways after graduation.   

At this event, students had a chance to speak directly with technicians, paramedics, electricians, ironworkers, machine operators, firefighters, carpenters and many other highly skilled professionals about good-paying career opportunities right here in the Inland Empire. I was glad to see so many young people show an interest in the variety of trades that were represented at the fair.  

As always, I am proud to be a voice for the Inland Empire in Congress, and I will keep working to lower costs for our families, bring more good-paying jobs to our region and build more support for the middle class.