Farming Builds Healthy Communities

Did you know that urban and suburban agriculture is growing in Pennsylvania? After joining Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Redding and Philadelphia City Council to discuss urban farming last week, I am even more enthusiastic about what these farms can do for our neighborhoods. These farms sit at the intersection between economic development, community building and healthy living. Companies like Metropolis Farms are developing innovative approaches to farming in indoor spaces, creating jobs and infusing food deserts with healthy eating options while building communities.

In the 4th District, I am proud of the work of Weavers Way to bring urban farming to Stenton Family Manor and Mort Brooks Farm. I am also proud of community gardens like La Mott’s, which is more than eighty years old. These farms supply fresh food, and combine self-reliance with shared responsibility while responding to hunger and food insecurity in our community. I encourage you and your family to get involved in farming in the 4th district.

Medical Cannabis Advocates Show that Participation is Power

On April 17th, Governor Wolf signed The Medical Marijuana Act (SB 3) into law, making Pennsylvania the 24th state to legalize medical marijuana. Patients, families, advocates, and lawmakers came together to pass compassionate medical cannabis legislation. I was glad to co-sponsor SB 3, and am especially proud of the mothers whose advocacy made this victory possible. Their tireless effort in support of medical cannabis has shown us what is possible through citizen participation in governing. Because of their work, Pennsylvania has brought hope to families across the commonwealth who have been suffering without remedy.

Medical cannabis will have an enormous impact on the lives of sick children, adults and caregivers in Pennsylvania. This medicine presents our state with the possibility of bringing healing to those who suffer from seizures, cancer, PTSD and many other debilitating illnesses. It also provides Pennsylvania with opportunities for further economic growth through new jobs and increased tax revenue. Our legislature and Governor showed compassion and wisdom in passing this law.

Thank You to Our Constituent Service Outreach Partners

Over the past several months, my staff has been getting out of the office and providing services to neighbors at locations throughout the district. This work would not be possible without community partners and businesses that allow my staff to serve on-site. These partners deserve recognition for their contributions in helping my office to provide constituent services. Our community partners include:

• Brown’s Shop Rite in Cheltenham
• Acme in Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill
• LaSalle Fresh Grocer
• Springfield Library
• East Cheltenham Library
• Emlen Arms
• Phillip Murray House
• Imhotep Charter School
• Martin Luther King High School
• Salem Baptist Church
• New Life Presbyterian Church
• Senior Apartments at Cliveden

My office is continually looking for new locations for community outreach. Please contact my staff if you have suggestions for constituent service mobile locations.

Dare to Care,

Art Haywood
State Senator
4th District

Stay in Touch on Social Media

Please follow me on Facebook and Twitter to stay involved and receive live updates on issues and events. Be sure to check out my latest videos on YouTube, my latest photos on Instagram and subscribe to my Participation is Power Podcast!