This PA Community Could Raise More Revenue with a New Form of Government

A municipality in Berks County that is struggling financially may be able to adopt a new form of government that would permit local officials to raise taxes past state limits.

Mount Penn Bureau, as recommended by some financial experts, could utilize a home rule charter to raise revenue to avoid property tax hikes.

Spotlight PA discusses the pros and cons of home rule charters, as well as The Pennsylvania’s Economy League role in determining financial recommendations.



Click here to read the full article

Shapiro Administration Announces Year Four Findings of Stigma Reduction Campaign

The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has announced findings from its fourth year of the Life Unites Us campaign, which uses evidence to address reducing substance use disorder related stigma.

Driven by research and several organizational partnerships, Life Unites Us uses social media to spread success stories of individuals in recovery and to bring awareness to its mission.

This article explains findings since Life Unites Us launched in 2020, and details what data has been gathered in year four. 

Click here to read the full article

School Districts Plan Career, Tech Center for Wayne, Pike Students and Community

Four school districts across Pike and Wayne counties are establishing a center that offers technical and hands-on trades learning opportunities for both students and community members.

The two counties are the only in the state that do not have a career and technical education center.

The center would offer adult education as well, amidst a national interest in the revival of trades.                                

Click here to read the full article

Increasing the Supply of New Affordable Housing Toolkit

Access to affordable housing is vital to inclusivity and equity in communities across the nation.

Maintaining partnerships between community members, businesses, and local leaders helps create solid planning for the best approach to lasting solutions.

The HUD Exchange has developed a support toolkit for housing resources and community-based strategies. 



Click here to read the full article

Debt in America: An Interactive Map

Debt, often stemming from outstanding credit or bills, remains a major obstacle to financial security in America.

Young adults from 18 to 24 are specifically vulnerable to certain types of debt.

This interactive map shows the demographic makeup of debt across America and the differences that may persist between white communities and communities of color. 

Click here to read the full article

Homebound Seniors Living Alone Often Slip Through Health System’s Cracks

According to research, across America, approximately 2 million adults aged 65 and older are either entirely or mostly homebound, with almost 6 million more able to function independently.

Of those seniors, about 40 percent of homebound seniors have five or more chronic medical conditions, like heart or lung diseases, and nearly 30 percent may have probable dementia.

KFF Health explores data around homebound seniors, and the unique health challenges they face. 

 

Click here to read the full article