READING, PA — Sen. Judy Schwank recently concluded an ambitious district-wide tour aimed at increasing awareness and participation in the state’s expanded Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program. The tour, culminating on April 24 at the B’nai B’rith Apartments in Reading, marked the final stop of an 11-venue effort that processed over 400 applications for local residents.
In a significant policy shift last year, the Pennsylvania General Assembly approved a historic expansion of the rebate program, raising the maximum standard rebate from $650 to $1,000 and extending eligibility to renters and homeowners with incomes up to $45,000. This expansion has opened the door for an additional 170,000 Pennsylvanians to benefit from the program, designed to alleviate the financial burden of property taxes and rent on seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Recognizing the potential impact of these changes, Sen. Schwank embarked on the tour to directly engage with the community, particularly targeting those who have become eligible under the new guidelines. The tour’s itinerary included stops at various residential communities and public buildings such as the Oakshire Apartments, multiple community libraries, township buildings, and apartment complexes across her district.
Sen. Schwank expressed satisfaction with the outreach effort, emphasizing the importance of making the application process accessible and manageable for her constituents. “Thankfully, we have a lot of folks who are applying for the first time this year because they are newly qualified. This is a great program, and it’s important to me that all my constituents that are eligible can take advantage,” Schwank stated.
Though the tour has ended, Sen. Schwank assures her constituents that her office remains ready to assist with applications. Her team continues to welcome residents to visit her Muhlenberg Township office for support in navigating the program requirements and submission process.
The proactive approach taken by Sen. Schwank’s office not only highlights the expanded benefits available through the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program but also underscores a broader commitment to ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they deserve. With the potential to significantly ease financial pressures for tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians, the implications of the program’s expansion—and Sen. Schwank’s efforts to promote it—could be profound, offering a lifeline to those struggling with the rising costs of housing and living expenses.
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