August 2023: Congressional Update and District Open House
Dear Friend,
As we approach the end of August, I wanted to take a moment to provide you all with an update on the various activities and initiatives I’ve been involved in throughout our district.
I also want to extend a warm invitation to all of you. I’ll be hosting an open house of our new District Office at the Sabathani Community Center. This event will be a fantastic opportunity for us to come together, discuss important issues, and connect with one another. I’m looking forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new community members as well.
Youth Farm receives funding for the Northside Youth Greenhouse
Last December, President Biden signed into law a funding bill that included my Appropriations request of $750,000 for Youth Farm — funding that will help build the Northside Youth Greenhouse. Our kids deserve good food, they deserve a connection to the Earth, and they deserve to have leaders in Washington fighting for them.
The Push for Better Water Quality at Sochacki Park
I toured Sochacki Park and met with representatives from Golden Valley, Robbinsdale, and the Three Rivers Park District to discuss the potential impact of my Appropriations request. The $2.5 million request for Sochacki Park holds the intention of aiding Three Rivers staff in facilitating improvements to the park’s water features, including various basins that contribute to the flow into Bassett Creek. Watch my interview with CCX media here.
Earned Income Tax Credit with AARP
Earlier this month I engaged in a meaningful conversation with representatives from AARP. Our focus was centered on the Earned Income Tax Credit for seniors. Many Americans are finding themselves needing to extend their working years, and as we navigate these changing times, it’s crucial that our policies acknowledge and accommodate these shifting realities. One key aspect of our discussion was the pressing need to broaden opportunities for home care. Enhancing home care options is a way to ensure that seniors can age with dignity, surrounded by the comfort of their own homes.
Community Building with RISE (Reviving the Islamic Sisterhood for Empowerment)
I deeply appreciate the opportunities to connect with the women involved in RISE (Reviving the Islamic Sisterhood for Empowerment). During our discussions, we explored topics including universal school meals, advocating for religious freedom internationally, and addressing Islamophobia. The potential for creating positive change in the world is closely tied to our mutual support, and I am fortunate to be a part of this impactful community.
Fishing with the Neighborhood Day Camps
One notable aspect of Minnesota’s 5th District is our exceptional park system. I spoke with the Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board and participated in a fishing activity during their cost-free City-Wide Neighborhood Day Camps. We are lucky to have such an extensive park system in Minnesota — and I was grateful to learn more about what it takes to maintain our beautiful parks.
I have secured over $3 million in federal funds for nature centers, greenhouses, and public spaces throughout the Fifth District and will continue to ensure that our public spaces receive adequate support and funding. I look forward to working with the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation board to see how the federal government can help with other community initiatives.
Coffee with Constituents at Bella’s Shoppe in Crystal
I recently hosted a ‘Coffee with your Congresswoman’ in Crystal to meet with constituents and answer various questions and discuss concerns they have in their community. This event provided an opportunity for me to engage directly with the community and listen to them directly. If you’d like me to host a Coffee with your Congresswoman in your neighborhood, please let us know by contacting the office.
Please keep in touch and reach out with any questions you have about our work.
In Service,
Ilhan Omar
