September 9, 2022

Dear JOHN,

The arrival of September means kids heading back to school - an exciting but often challenging time for families. I am always focused on finding ways to support, uplift, and empower families in our community, which is why this week I announced legislation I’m advancing that will reduce childhood hunger and ease the financial burden on parents.  

I have been grateful for the opportunity to spend the past few weeks in the district, and I appreciate the important feedback and insights that so many of you have shared with me during our time together. Next week, I will head back to Washington, DC where I will keep your thoughts and ideas in mind as I continue to focus on uplifting local families. Read more below. 

As we begin Hunger Action Month, food insecurity is again on the rise. Making matters worse, this is the first year since the pandemic where families are going back to paying for school lunches—causing financial hardship for many parents. Every child in America deserves access to healthy and nutritious meals. I’m advancing legislation to provide all students with free school meals, so they can focus on learning instead of worrying about where their next meal is coming from. Ensuring children in our community have reliable sources of food isn’t a political statement—it's a moral obligation. 

Congressman Joe Morelle Calls for Free School Meals for All Children 

‘It’s moral obligation’: New legislation aims to give Rochester students free meals 

September is also Suicide Awareness Month. I was honored to join the Veteran’s Outreach Center in raising awareness of the more than 7,000 veterans lost to suicide every year. Our veterans and their families must know they are not alone, and that help is always available.  

We have a responsibility to do more to support and uplift those who have courageously defended our nation. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am working tirelessly to address the scourge of veteran suicide. I’m particularly proud that provisions I authored were included in  The Brandon Act, which was signed into law in 2020, to ensure the VA is effectively using its budget for suicide prevention media outreach.  Together, we can end the stigma and ensure everyone has access to the mental health care they need.  

'Had we known': Event raises awareness of depression, suicide among veterans 

In a moment of crisis, connecting with an expert who can provide compassionate counseling is crucial. Trained counselors at the new 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are there to help. You are not alone.  

Rotarians are about service before self—a belief I share and strive to uphold every day. I was honored to update the Greece Rotary on my work in Congress and hear about the work local Rotarians have undertaken in our community. Their dedication to improving the community is truly remarkable, and I look forward to our continued work together. 

It has been over two decades since 9/11, however, the profound and lasting impact of this horrific event has not lessened, and nor should it. As we reflect on the anniversary of September 11th and honor those we lost, may we also find solace in remembering the limitless potential of the human spirit to persevere, come together, and uplift one another in times of tragedy.  

Wishing all the students, teachers, and parents across Monroe County a successful school year filled with fun and lots of learning! 

🏫📚🍎📝

Please know that my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.

Warmest personal regards,

Joe Morelle

New York's 25th Congressional District