Posts from Rep. Joe Morelle

December 14, 2024

Meeting with Leaders in  Cancer Support Services

The researchers and doctors at Roswell Park are some of the best in the world, helping to provide cutting-edge support and resources for cancer patients. For over 120 years they have been serving patients with compassion and innovation as the only comprehensive cancer center designated by the National Cancer Institute in Upstate New York. This week, I was grateful to meet with their CEO, Dr. Candace Johnson, to discuss their ongoing work with Wilmot Cancer Center and how we can advance our shared mission to end cancer as we know it.

 Sitting Down with Student Leaders

It was great to spend time with a group of Executive MBA students from the Berkeley Haas School of Business this week. These students come from all different circumstances and walks of life but remain united around a common purpose of improving our world for all. I’m always inspired by my conversations with the next generation of leaders in this country, and I look forward to seeing all they accomplish!

Learning About the Future of Space Exploration

I had an out-of-this-world meeting with the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Director Dr. Laurie Leshin, where we discussed the laboratory’s support for the upcoming Artemis missions! I’m working to deliver the resources NASA needs to continue exploring the great beyond through my role on the House Committee on Appropriations. As a lifelong lover of learning and the cosmos, I’m always excited by the opportunity to meet with the minds at the forefront of our nation’s scientific innovation.

Visiting Hope Hall School 

Hope Hall School is an organization in Rochester designed for students with special learning needs who experience challenges in the traditional classroom setting. Their mission to provide an alternative opportunity for these children to become successful learners helps families in our community get the support they need.

I’m grateful to their staff, students, and administrators for welcoming me to their community meeting this week where we discussed their essential work. 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.

December 7, 2024

Supporting our Local Schools

This week I sat down with representatives from Fairport Central Schools to discuss how we can best support their work preparing our next generation of leaders. Our dedicated public school staff and administrators inspire students every day and provide them with the skills to build a successful career and life. There’s no doubt a quality education has a transformational effect on our young people, and I’m committed to ensuring every child and teacher has access to the resources they need.

Advancing Quality, Affordable Healthcare for Everyone

Federally Qualified Health Centers like Trillium, Jordan Health, and Oak Orchard help ensure everyone–especially those in rural or traditionally underserved neighborhoods–can access the healthcare they need. Accessibility of life-saving health coverage should never be dependent on your zip code, and I have long been committed to the fight to make quality healthcare a reality for every American. I was glad to welcome representatives from these local FQHCs to Washington this week where we discussed their critical work and how we work together to achieve this mission.

Fighting the Stigma Against Mental Health Issues

Millions of Americans battle mental illnesses–and the National Alliance on Mental Illness works tirelessly to let people know they are not alone and provide support to those who need it. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with NAMI this week and talk about how we can work together to improve the lives of people with mental illness and their loved ones. I’ve advanced legislation to limit out-of-pocket costs and expand access to mental health services for all Americans and I’m proud to continue this fight to end the stigma around mental health issues and strengthen support resources.

A Reminder for the Medicare Open Enrollment Period 

Remember, tomorrow is the last day for Open Enrollment under the Affordable Care Act! It’s more important than ever to have comprehensive, affordable healthcare you can rely on. I’ve continually voted to expand healthcare coverage under the Affordable Care Act, and I’m going to keep working to make affordable healthcare available for all. Learn more about your potential savings at NYStateofHealth.ny.gov.

November 28, 2024

‘Tis the Season…For Holiday Scams

While the holiday season can often bring a renewed spirit of kindness and giving, it also often brings with it a rise in scams targeting older Americans, a trend both concerning and increasingly prevalent. On Monday, I was glad to be joined by my good friend Ann Marie Cook from Lifespan to outline our ongoing work to protect our community from these bad actors. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), older adults lose an estimated $3 billion annually to scams, with an uptick during the holidays due to fake charities, fraudulent online shopping deals, and Medicare-related phishing schemes. The FTC has a number of resources available, not only to educate members of our community on the types of scams they should be on the lookout for, but also providing ways to report any potential scams they come across this holiday season. To learn more about common scams, how to avoid them, and some helpful tools to keep you and your family safe, watch my video here or visit my website.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving provides us with the opportunity to join together with family, friends, and loved ones to celebrate and give thanks for the multitude of blessings surrounding us.

On behalf of myself, my team, and the entire Morelle family, I wish everyone a happy, peaceful, and safe Thanksgiving.

November 23, 2024

Recognizing American Education Week

This week was American Education Week! As the husband of a retired middle school teacher, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact an education can have on our youth. We owe it to every child and young adult to provide them with the opportunities, skills, and tools necessary to succeed in today’s world and beyond, and that starts with a quality education. I’m committed to investing in the resources our teachers and students need to help prepare the next generation for their future.

Welcoming Community Health Practitioners to Washington

Community health centers like Trillium are a critical part of providing high-quality healthcare to underserved populations in Rochester—especially for our LGBTQ+ community. Their work to increase access to essential services changes lives across Rochester, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to work alongside them in this mission.

To help them reach this goal, Senator Schumer and I announced we’ve secured $3 million in new federal funding that will allow Trillium to expand their service offerings and open a new location on Jefferson Avenue in Rochester. I’m grateful to Trillium and all our community health centers for the continued work they do in our communities, and it was an honor to welcome many of them to Washington this week to give my thanks to them in person. I look forward to continuing our work together to expand high-quality healthcare to more people in our region.

Celebrating 20 Years of The Children’s Agenda

It’s an honor to celebrate 20 years of The Children’s Agenda! Larry Marx and the entire team work tirelessly to support children in our community. Watch the video below to hear more about their incredible impact and join me in celebrating their two decades of work!

Securing Resources for Law Enforcement Organizations

Local law enforcement works every day to keep us safe—it’s important they have access to every available resource and tool to do their jobs effectively. I’m proud to announce federal dollars for police departments in our region to help provide support and keep our officers secure.

I look forward to continuing my support alongside all our local law enforcement officials to build a safer community for everyone. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Announces Federal Funding Awards for Local Police Departments

November 16, 2024

As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, one of my responsibilities is helping to prepare newly elected members of Congress for their duties in the House.

This week I led panels and hosted informational meetings on the roles and responsibilities of Members and important safety and security protocols. I look forward to welcoming these new Members as we enter the 119^th Congress and working together to advance meaningful solutions for our communities.

Supporting the Building Industry

This week, I sat down with the International Code Council to hear about their work to ensure we’re building safe and sustainable communities and buildings across our country. Here in Rochester, they’re focused on keeping municipal codes current, consistent, and accessible to residents. We’re working together to make sure our region continues to thrive and build a stronger, safer future for everyone.

Recognizing Family Caregiver Month

November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to express our gratitude to the individuals who dedicate their time and energy to caring for a family member. In our veteran community, caregivers provide world-class support and I’m fighting to make sure they have access to every resource they need.

My legislation would provide employment assistance, retirement planning, stronger healthcare benefits, and more. We’re grateful for the sacrifice caregivers make for our veterans and we cannot leave them behind. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Announces Legislation to Support Veteran Caregivers

November 7

I want to thank everyone who took the opportunity to cast a ballot and make their voice heard at the ballot box this week. Voting is the very foundation upon which our democracy was built, and our nation is strongest when everyone can participate in the process. It is the honor of a lifetime to serve our community in Congress, and I look forward to getting back to work. 

I know many of us are troubled about the direction of our nation, and I share your concerns. It is our task now to heal, and to draw strength from one another. In the weeks and months ahead, it’s critical we set aside our partisanship, bridge our divides, and come together as one nation. 

We must never lose sight of our shared goal: building a future that uplifts everyone and gives them the opportunity to thrive. 

Here’s to the work ahead. 

November 3

Empowering Individuals of All Abilities

Mary Cariola Center and President and CEO Karen Zandi are doing outstanding work to empower individuals of all abilities and support families in our community. Each year, their services support hundreds of children and young adults. I stopped by the center this week to discuss their latest initiatives. We’re working together to ensure everyone in our region has access to the resources they need to succeed.

Honoring our Veteran Community

We must always cherish the sacrifices of our brave veterans who protect the freedoms we hold dear. I was honored to present Rochester’s own U.S. Air Force veteran, Glen Fishbaugh, with the medals he earned through his service in a ceremony this week.

As a member of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, I also had the honor of presenting Vietnam War veterans from our region with honorary lapel pins and Certificates of Congressional Recognition on Friday. Hosting this event ahead of Veteran’s Day felt especially meaningful as we honor and thank those who served this great nation and fought to protect our democracy.

 Spending Time in the 19th Ward Neighborhood

This week, I was out and about in the 19th Ward community, stopping by local businesses and organizations that are making impactful changes for their neighbors.

I visited the Arnett Café for a fantastic breakfast with their signature comfort food. This locally owned small business has served the 19th Ward since 2013, and it was a pleasure to stop in and say hello to their team.

I also joined His Branches to learn about how their neighborhood-based health clinics provide critical care for our community. Everyone deserves access to healthcare, and His Branches is helping bridge that gap for those in need.

Another visit was to Teen Empowerment, where I heard more about their mission to create meaningful, lasting change by investing in the next generation of community leaders. Their programs train, employ, and empower local youth.

I also stopped by the newly opened University of Rochester pharmacy at Brooks Landing. This pharmacy fills an essential need for accessible medical options in our community. I’ve fought to bring down the cost of prescription drugs, and we must ensure lifesaving medications are available when our neighbors need them.

Supporting Family-owned Restaurants

Thank you to Ashley Henriquez and her mother, Maria Henriquez, from La Salvi—a local, family-owned restaurant at the Commissary—for inviting me to try some delicious Salvadorian and Mexican cuisine!

This is one of many success stories from the Commissary, which showcases Rochester’s innovative spirit. Local restaurants bring so much to our community, from good-paying jobs to making each neighborhood unique. I’m proud to support their growth and prosperity.

October 27

Securing Affordable Housing Opportunities

This week I joined the Rochester Housing Authority to announce the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funded Bond-Hamilton Townhomes Project. We’re facing a very real affordable housing shortage and it’s threatening the economic stability of people across the country. This federal investment will work to make safe, affordable homes a reality for more local families. Together we’re transforming this property to bring families the stability they need and move us one step closer to a Rochester where no one is left out in the cold.

Ensuring our Seniors Have Access to Care

It was a pleasure to join Lifespan at their Medicare informational event to bring seniors the resources they need to make informed decisions about their coverage. I’m grateful for Lifespan’s partnership as we work to better serve our aging community and make services easier to understand. Medicare is a lifeline for millions of Americans, and I’m working to protect and enhance the program to ensure it remains accessible for current and future generations.

Fighting for Solutions to the Childcare Crisis

I hear heartbreaking stories every day from parents who are struggling to find safe, reliable, and affordable childcare. This is a crisis, and we need solutions now.

I joined the YWCA of Rochester and the Children’s Agenda to highlight legislation I’m fighting for that will reduce the exorbitant cost of childcare, get more children into high-quality programs, and ease the burden on families. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Takes Action to Address Childcare Crisis, Support Working Families

Welcoming the Economic Development Agency to our Community

I was honored to welcome the Acting Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Economic Development Agency, Cristina Killingsworth to Rochester this week. We visited local businesses and research facilities in our NY SMART I-Corridor Technology Hub.

Our first stop was Monroe Community College to visit my friend, Dr. Alexis Vogt. MCC is dedicated to educating the next generation of microelectronics technicians who will be critical to the success of our Tech Hub’s success. Together we took a tour of the optics program and discussed how they are preparing students for a successful career.

Then, we headed to the University of Rochester’s semi-annual Industrial Associates meeting where Assistant Secretary Killingsworth and I addressed members of the Rochester optics, photonics, imaging, and lasers community. Together we’re laying the groundwork for what’s to come and shaping a future where we continue to lead—locally, nationally, and globally.

Celebrating the Retirement of a Rochester Icon

Norm Silverstein is a dear friend and a true visionary in public media. I lovingly refer to him as “Stormin’ Norman,” in honor of his fierce advocacy as he brought to life his vision to push WXXI Radio forward.

It was a pleasure to join his retirement celebration and recognize the legacy he leaves of integrity and dedication to making WXXI and all its endeavors a place where public service and journalistic excellence thrive. It has been an honor to know him and work alongside him for nearly 30 years, and I wish him and his wife Jane all the best in this next chapter. 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.

October 21, 2024

Celebrating Innovation in Public Transportation

For many in our community, access to public transportation isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity. It’s how people get to work, how kids get to school, and how families make it to healthcare appointments, grocery stores, or just visit loved ones across town. The Regional Transit Service, better known as RTS, works tirelessly to ensure our community can access safe, reliable public transportation. This week we celebrated the next innovative era of the RTS fleet: zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell buses that are accessible, efficient, and help us fight the climate crisis. I’m excited to help Rochester become a national leader in how public transportation systems can reduce emissions and embrace the technologies of the future.

Meeting with Global Manufacturing Leaders

The Gleason Corporation was founded right here in Rochester in 1865. Their work specializing in high-precision gears is at the forefront of the global manufacturing landscape. I joined them for a tour of their impressive facility and spoke with their team about how we can support their continued growth. It’s always a privilege to meet with the organizations that drive Rochester’s one-of-a-kind innovation economy.

Celebrating the Drivers of New Technologies 

Our community is home to remarkable creators and innovators, many of whom were recognized at the TechRochester G.R.E.A.T. Awards Ceremony this week. These awardees are paving the way for a future where Rochester is at the cutting edge of new technologies. I’m grateful for their hard work and partnership as we dream big, push boundaries, and work hand in hand to build a brighter future for Rochester.

Meeting with the Leaders of Rochester 

Leadership Rochester is an extraordinary asset to our community working to ensure our leaders have the tools, experience, and exposure necessary to continue their great work. I joined them to discuss some of the lessons I’ve learned about leadership throughout my time in public service. I look forward to seeing how these leaders continue to break down barriers, inspire change and growth, and push our community into the next era of success.

Protecting Older Americans from Targeted Scams  

It’s truly frightening to witness the increase we have seen in the past few years of scams targeted at our senior community. These crimes deeply affect our sense of security, trust, and well-being—and it’s important we know how to recognize the warning signs and stop these threats.

I was joined by Lifespan and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department at Keeler Park Apartments this week to speak with residents about common scams currently targeting older Americans, and how they can protect themselves and their loved ones.