Senator Shaneka Henson - District 30 Newsletter | |
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State Senator Shaneka Henson joined the Maryland Senate in 2025 after serving five years as a Delegate in the Maryland House of Delegates, where she succeeded the late Speaker Michael E. Busch. Learn more about the trial attorney and former Alderwoman whose family values make her a passionate and bright leader. | |
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Securing the Future of Public Housing:
$3.3 Million Investment in HACA
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Senator Shaneka Henson announced a transformative $3.3 million investment to stabilize the Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis (HACA). In her remarks, Senator Henson highlighted the urgent financial and structural challenges facing HACA, the importance of safe and stable housing, and how this funding will address uninhabitable units, essential repairs, and financial deficits.
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Senator Henson Leads Efforts to Strengthen Childcare | |
Senator Henson is committed to strengthening Maryland’s childcare system, where costs are among the highest in the nation and nearly half of families live in childcare deserts. Last week she joined the Maryland Child Care Association’s advocacy day to push for solutions that support both families and providers. | | |
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Quality, affordable child care is essential for working families, yet providers struggle with funding gaps, staffing shortages, and administrative burdens.
This session, Senator Henson filed SB857 to expand Prekindergarten Expansion Grants without reducing infant and toddler care, streamline applications, and provide multi-year awards. SB868 creates the Substitute Child Care Provider Pool Pilot Program to address staffing shortages with trained substitutes. These bills are designed to protect childcare investments, support providers, and ensure access to quality early education.
Click HERE for more info
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From The Senator's Office | | |
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District 30 Night in Annapolis
Join us for District 30 Night in Annapolis on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Miller Senate Office Building, East 1 & 11 (President's Conference Room), 11 Bladen Street, Annapolis, MD 21401. This free event is a chance to connect, share your thoughts, and hear updates about our district. RSVP by calling 410-841-3578 or email us at: shaneka.henson@senate.state.md.us
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Senator Shaneka Henson Scholarship
We are excited to announce the Senator Shaneka Henson Scholarship is now accepting applications until April 1st. Don’t miss the opportunity to invest in your future with this scholarship!
Click HERE for more info
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COUNT DOWN TO SINE DIE 2025 | |
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50
DAYS
Sine Die: The final adjournment of a session of a regular or special legislative session.
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Resources | News | Updates | | |
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AACPS Redistricting Process
Phase II
The second phase of Anne Arundel County Public Schools' comprehensive redistricting process will begin in February 2025 with a plan scheduled to be adopted by the Board of Education in November 2025. This means new boundaries for schools in the Annapolis, Arundel, Broadneck, Crofton, Severna Park, South River, and Southern clusters.
Find more info and get involved HERE
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Support for Maryland Workers Impacted by Federal Transition
MD Department Labor is hosting free virtual workshops for former federal employees and other workers impacted by the federal government transition. They are weekly on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. - noon. Topics include understanding the private sector landscape, resume reinvention, effective job search strategies, dealing with job loss, and more.
Sign Up for workshop via email HERE
Find more info HERE
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Find Your Missing Money
Marylanders have millions in unclaimed funds, including forgotten paychecks, refunds, security deposits, and more waiting to be claimed.
Search HERE
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MBE Annapolis Networking Event
Minority Business Enterprise Night in Annapolis stands as the largest conference for minority businesses in Maryland. This event provides an unparalleled networking opportunity, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, legislators, and state officials to champion diversity, inclusion, and economic empowerment.
Find more info HERE
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Unlock Business Opportunities
Attention Anne Arundel County small, minority-owned, woman-owned, and Veteran-owned businesses. Join AAEDC and MDOT on Thursday, February 20, from 10-11 AM for a free virtual session on MDOT’s small and minority business certifications. Learn about eligibility, the application process, and how to secure state business opportunities.
Register HERE
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Summer Camp Registration is Open!
The 2025 Spring Programs & Summer Camp Guide is here, and it’s bursting with exciting ways to make the most of the season!
Visit the program guide HERE
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Job Alert
Department of Recreation and Parks Child Care Team
Join the Department of Recreation and Parks as a valued member of the Child Care Team! They are looking for passionate individuals to fill positions at various locations.
Click HERE for more info.
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Black History Lecture Series
The speaker series will feature local experts and historians on topics related to Black history, culture and life in Maryland’s state capital. The program seeks to highlight aspects of Black history that are not always well-known, and the enduring contribution of African-American residents, past and present. The content is suitable for all ages. Families are encouraged to participate.
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Free Tax Prep
The CASH Campaign free tax preparation program is now open. Our IRS certified staff and volunteers will prepare returns at sites throughout the state of Maryland for taxpayers with household incomes under $67,000. CASH will prepare and e-file both a state and federal return.
Schedule an appointment at 410-234-8008
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AACPS Aids Students Impacted by Devastating Wildfires
Superintendent Dr. Mark Bedell launched the #LiftLA campaign to support Los Angeles Unified students and families affected by the wildfires. The fundraiser aims to provide relief for those impacted by the destruction and loss of life.
Click HERE to make a donation
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2025 Maryland Civic Education and Engagement Leadership Summit
Learn from experts in the field, connect with like-minded peers, and gain valuable insights to drive positive change in your community. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership skills, expand your network, and be part of a movement towards a more engaged and informed society.
Click HERE to register
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Fair Housing in Anne Arundel County - Webinar Series
Join the Anne Arundel County Office of Equity and Human Rights, ACDS and the Equal Rights Center for an empowering fair housing webinar series on February 18th at 4:00pm.
Click HERE to register
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Community Support Grants
Community Support Grants are available, offering up to $50,000 for eligible nonprofits addressing priorities like equity, education, and community wellbeing. Applications are due by February 21, 2025.
Find more info HERE
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Empowering Youth
Join the Lambda Delta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho and the Eta Eta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha for the 28th Annual Youth Symposium on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Severn Center in Severn, MD for a day of interactive workshops on STEM, financial literacy, and healthy decision-making—free to attend!
Click HERE for more info.
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Warming Relief
Anne Arundel County has made several facilities available for warming relief this winter. If you need temporary relief from the cold weather, stop in and use the designated facilities during their normal business hours.
Crisis Warmline at 410-768-5522
Click HERE for more info.
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Maryland Climate Corp Fellowship
Young adults (18-25) passionate about the environment can gain hands-on experience through a one-year, stipend-supported service program with the Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps. Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 program year, running from August 19, 2025, to August 18, 2026.
Click HERE for more information
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DNR Summer Camp
High school student looking for something amazing to do this summer are encouraged to check out Natural Resources Careers Camp. Camp is from July 20 - July 26 at the Hickory Environmental Education Center. Only 42 spots are available.
Click HERE to view summer camp details
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Emergency Assistance for Families with Children
The Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC) program offers cash assistance to help families facing urgent needs like rent, utilities, or other emergencies. Eligible families with children under 21 can apply through their local Department of Social Services.
Find more info HERE
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Kickstart Your Career as a School Bus Driver
Receive a contingent job offer and free CDL-B training to begin your career in school bus transportation. Qualified candidates can receive a $2,000 hiring and retention bonus along with an opportunity to secure a job with an AAWDC partner.
Find more info HERE
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New COVID Vaccines Available
Amid an unexpectedly large surge of summer COVID infections in the U.S., and with the fall/winter virus season around the corner, updated COVID vaccines have arrived. Get the updated COVID vaccine around mid-October to boost protection in time for the rise of cases that typically occur around November through January.
Find vaccines HERE
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Senior Call Check In
Make sure our seniors stay safe and supported. It’s easy to enroll. You can register online, download and mail in a paper application, or call the toll-free number at (866) 502-0560 to have an application mailed to your home.
Find more info HERE
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Get a Ride for Only $2
Get from point A to point B a little faster for $2 a ride, $1 for seniors using the new TRANSIGO app on Apple or Android - or you can call dispatch to get picked up: 410-263-7964.
Find more info HERE
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Get Your High School Diploma
OIC offers free adult education and job readiness classes, including GED Preparation, Introduction to Computers, Microsoft Office Essentials, and English as a Second Language.
OIC ofrece clases gratuitas de educación para adultos y preparación para el trabajo, incluyendo preparación para el GED, introducción a la computadora, Microsoft Office Essentials e inglés como segundo idioma.
Find more info HERE
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Avoid Utility Shut-Offs
The PSC Medical Certification Program helps individuals with serious illness or medical equipment avoid utility shut-offs.
For more information HERE
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Maryland's Coastal Future
Explore the latest mapping project from Maryland DNR, predicting future wetlands due to sea level rise. This crucial data helps protect our communities and wildlife. Learn more and view the map on the Maryland Coastal Atlas.
For more information HERE
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Free Chromebook Giveaway
AACPL is offering free Chromebooks to eligible Anne Arundel County residents through a grant from the county and the State of Maryland. Distribution events start in January 2024. Check eligibility, register for a timeslot, and bring required documentation. For details, visit our Digital Equity page.
For more information HERE
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Support for Caregivers
Secure your spot in the 2024 free virtual caregiver workshops by the Living Well Center of Excellence. Participate in courses like Powerful Tools for Caregivers, Building Better Caregivers, and SAVVY Caregiver®. Enhance your self-care and caregiving skills, fostering confidence and competence.
For more information HERE
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Free Cervical Cancer Screenings
The Anne Arundel County Department of Health is offers no-cost clinical breast exams, mammograms, Pap and HPV tests, and follow-up testing for eligible individuals, the department emphasizes the importance of early detection.
For more information HERE
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Support for Kinship Caregivers
The Maryland Department of Human Services offers support for Kinship Caregivers to fill in the gap and care for children and vulnerable adults.
For more information HERE
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Get Help With Weatherization
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development invites you to seize the benefits of their Weatherization Assistance Program. Combat air infiltration, install insulation, and enhance your home's comfort.
Apply today through your Local Weatherization Agency by visiting the provided link HERE
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Flu Vaccines Are Available
Flu season is here. Anne Arundel County residents age 6 mother and older, can get free flu vaccines at walk-in flu clinic in Annapolis, Glen Burnie or Shady Side, while supplies last.
For more information HERE
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Gun Safety Lock Giveaway
Residents 18 years and older can receive up to two gun safety locks at the Busch Annapolis, Eastport-Annapolis Neckand Glen Burnie libraries. No library card is needed to participate, and no proof of residency is required.
Find more info HERE
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Low Income Household Water Assistance Program
The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is available statewide and provides Maryland households with financial relief toward water and/or wastewater bills. Eligible households may receive up to $2,000.
More info HERE
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Military Career Connections
Are you a transitioning military service member, veteran, or military spouse wanting to connect with Anne Arundel Workforce Development career services?
Visit HERE to learn about the eligibility requirements.
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Affordable Connectivity Program
Maxsip Telecom, the provider for the Federal Government's Affordable Connectivity Program, is providing FREE internet and tablets to anyone on government assistance programs like Medicaid.
Find more info HERE
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Call or Text 988 for Free Support
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline is available nationwide. Anyone in the United States can call or text 988 to talk to mental health counselors and receive confidential and free support 24/7/365.
Anne Arundel County residents can still access the Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency, Inc. Community Warmline at 410-768-5522.
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Virtual Office Hours to meet with Delegate Henson
Senator Shaneka Henson would love to hear your voice during Virtual Office Hours. If you have an issue you would like to discuss, sign up for your 15 minute meeting.
CALL (410) 841-3578
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Our New Office
We’re moved into our new Senate office. Please store Senator Henson's updated contact information.
Senator Shaneka Henson
203 James Senate Office Building
11 Bladen Street Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: 410-841-3578
Toll-Free: 1-800-492-7122 ext. 3578
shaneka.henson@senate.state.md.us
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UPDATES TO UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The Department of Labor has guaranteed that they will get to all applicants; however, due to the overwhelming number of applicants, they cannot provide a time estimate. To troubleshoot, go to https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/unemployment.shtml.
If you are unable to determine your issue through the FAQs featured on the website, please send my office an email explaining the issues you're facing as well as the following information so that we may present that to our Legislative Liaison:
- Full legal name
- Phone number
- Claim/Claimant ID (if applicable)
Please note that Delegate Jones, Delegate Howard and I submit the same claims.
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Community Food and Necessity Distributions
Below are some food giveaways scheduled for this week:
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City of Annapolis, Office of Emergency Management, Every Friday 12:00pm-2:00pm, Pip Moyer Recreation center, Every Friday-12-2pm, To be placed on the list, call/e-mail Office of Emergency Management: (410) 216 - 9167; kltisch@annapolis.gov
- St. Luke’s Food, Baby & Senior Pantry at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 1101 Bay Ridge Ave., every Tuesday 11:00am-12:00pm, (food, infant formula, diapers and wipes, adult formula supplement and adult incontinence protection items), bring ID.
- Mills Parole Elementary School, 1 George & Marion Phelps Lane Annapolis, MD, every 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month 10:00am-12:00pm.
- Asbury United Methodist Church, 87 West St Annapolis MD, has a food pantry available ever Wed. and Fri. from 9AM - 11AM.
- Heritage Baptist Church, 1740 Forest Drive Annapolis MD, has food giveaway every Tuesday 9:30am-11am (must provide ID and proof of residency)
- First Baptist Church of Annapolis, 31 W. Washington Street, gives away pantry bags and prepared meals every Saturday, 11 am - 1 pm
- Discoveries: the Library at the Mall in Westfield Annapolis Mall, gives away baby/infant supplies and menstrual products every Saturday from 10 am - 12 pm.
- Cornerstone Church: Rotating HACA communities on the second Saturday of each month (May - Bloomsbury, June - Eastport, July - Morris Blum, August - Robinwood). Each giveaway will be 12:30pm 2:30pm.
Call 410-260-2211 to Schedule a Fresh Food Delivery Option
Information on regularly scheduled pantries can be found at the top of my newsletter by clicking on the link next to "Food Resources in District 30A." Please send an email to Shaneka.Henson@house.state.md.us if you know of a food resource that should be included in this newsletter.
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By Authority of Friends of Shaneka Henson, Sherry Galloway Treasurer | | | | |
