Hi team --

Can you believe that yesterday was the first official day of fall?

With colder months swiftly approaching, that also means we'll be spending more time inside than out. Vaccination rates have started to slow -- causing COVID rates to spike back up. We've already lost too many lives and have done too much work to move backwards.

Unfortunately, despite access to life-saving COVID-19 vaccines, a large portion of our population remains hesitant toward getting their shots. But it's important that we understand that the vaccine truly does save lives. They are safe, effective, and the best way to keep yourself and the people around you protected.

Especially with the Delta variant running rampant, we can't afford to let our guard down now, . Even after being fully vaccinated, we must remain vigilant about wearing masks and following the advice of our public health leaders at the CDC.

COVID-19 has shed light on many of our community's shortcomings -- including the dangerous shortage of home care workers. I even wrote about this issue earlier this month in an op-ed for HudsonValley 360.

I've met with countless New Yorkers that are concerned about the health and safety of their parents and grandparents. Across our communities, families have struggled to find home care workers so their aging loved ones could remain safe and at home during the pandemic.

There's no question: We need more state and federal investment in care for our senior populations and those living with disabilities in order to end the home care shortage crisis. That's why in Washington, I am working with the administration and my colleagues in Congress to deliver meaningful investments.

, I am dedicated to showing up for you -- and you've shown countless times that you show up for me too. Now it's time to show up for our entire community by banding together, getting vaccinated, and continuing to wear our masks.

This pandemic isn't over yet, and even though pandemic fatigue is very real, we need to continue to push through together.

Talk to you soon, 

Antonio