October 28, 2022

Dear JOHN xxxxxx,

This week I spent time with community partners and local organizations to highlight some of the topics I’m most passionate about: lowering costs for families, growing our local economy, continuing the fight for equality, and paying tribute to the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. Read more below. 

 Honoring Our Nation's Veterans 

As President Calvin Coolidge said: “The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.” We must never take for granted the sacrifices the men and women of our Armed Services make—we must take every opportunity to demonstrate our thanks, our appreciation, and our remembrance. That’s why this week, I had the privilege of presenting ten local Vietnam Veterans with commemorative lapel pins to honor their service to our great nation. 

Please join me in celebrating these courageous veterans who have given so much in defense of our freedoms. 

Read: Congressman Joe Morelle Honors Local Vietnam Veterans 

 Celebrating the Legacy of Frederick Douglass 

Today, I was proud to stand with community partners and unveil the new Frederick Douglass statue at his namesake airport. Frederick Douglass was a trailblazer, freedom-fighter, and iconic part of our community’s history, and it is only fitting that his statue be one of the first things travelers see when they arrive here in Rochester. May it serve as a symbol of our ongoing commitment to the values Douglass championed and continue to inspire us to build a stronger, more prosperous community for all.

I enjoyed the opportunity to visit Empowering People’s Independence and learn about their transformative work uplifting individuals with disabilities in our community. I'm proud to continue working alongside them to ensure everyone has the chance to thrive, regardless of their abilities. 

On Wednesday, I visited the team at Golden Harvest Bakery—a family-owned small business in our community that prioritizes using American Sign Language. They are a vital asset to our large and vibrant deaf and hard-of-hearing community, and I'm grateful for their work to strengthen accessibility and inclusivity. 

 Cutting Costs for Families 

No family should have to face the difficult choice between heating their home and putting food on their table. That’s why I have helped secure funding for the Home Energy Assistance Program, which provides relief for families during the winter months. I encourage all who qualify to apply for this critical program. 

Apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program here starting on November 1: https://www.ny.gov/services/apply-heating-and-cooling-assistance-heap 

Please know 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