Senator Helming's Monthly Newsletter |February 2026

Monthly Newsletter
February 8, 2026

February has certainly reminded us what winter in New York looks like. Snowy days and bitter cold have tested all of us. I want to recognize the many people who have kept our communities safe and moving. That includes the highway and public works crews clearing our roads, first responders on call around the clock, utility workers restoring service, and everyone working outdoors to provide the essential services we rely on. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.

And while February brings the cold, it also brings warmth — the warmth that comes from remarkable people who quietly give so much of themselves to others. This month, we’re highlighting individuals whose lives of service inspire us all. That includes Darwin Welker, a volunteer firefighter for more than 70 years, and World War II veteran Addison Sheckler, who was recently honored with the French Legion of Honor — France’s equivalent of the United States Medal of Honor.

These stories remind us that even in the coldest months, the heart of our communities is strong, generous, and resilient. Read more below for these outstanding stories and other updates from across our district.

Happy Valentine’s Day,

Pam ❤️

WATCH: Heart Health Month

February is Heart Health Month, and with Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s the perfect time to show your heart some love. Heart disease is still one of the leading causes of death for Americans. And as the American Heart Association marks 102 years of lifesaving work, this month reminds us that we can all take steps to protect our health. Watch my video for a few simple actions that can help prevent serious heart issues.

WATCH

Make Your Voice Heard!
2026 Constituent Survey

As we begin a new year and a new legislative session, I am asking for your input to help guide my work in the New York State Senate. This brief survey focuses on key statewide issues that seniors, working families, farmers, and small business owners have identified as priorities. These include affordability, taxes, access to services, and other quality-of-life challenges in our communities. Complete the survey below:

Complete the Survey

Honoring a Hometown Hero

It’s not every day you witness someone being knighted. I had the honor of presenting a Senate Citation to 102-year-old World War II veteran Master Sergeant Addison “Cal” Sheckler as he received the French Legion of Honor Medal. His courage helped shape the Allied victory and reminds us of the extraordinary legacy of the Greatest Generation.

A special thank you to Phelps Legion Post 457 and Board President Tom Lush for hosting this meaningful ceremony and ensuring Master Sergeant Sheckler received the recognition he so richly deserves.

Learn More

VIDEO: Fighting to Make NY More Affordable

With taxes, utility bills, and healthcare premiums climbing, many people feel like they’re falling behind even when they’re doing everything right. I’m working to bring those costs down. That includes legislation to cut taxes, lower the cost of housing, utilities, childcare, and healthcare, and remove the red tape and unfunded mandates driving prices up

Watch my press conference below to learn more.

WATCH

Constituent Spotlight:
Darwin Welker

Darwin Welker’s 70 years of service with the West Walworth Fire Department is an extraordinary achievement. I was proud to present him with a Senate Commendation Award recognizing his decades of dedication. The Senate Commendation Award is one of the highest honors a State Senator can bestow, celebrating exceptional leadership and dedication.

And he’s not the only one in his family to make a lasting impact. His family helped establish the West Walworth Fire Department, and just last year his cousin Ray reached this same milestone of 70 years of service.

Darwin, thank you for protecting our community for so many years and thank you to your entire family for their long-standing commitment to public service.

VIDEO: Demanding Transparency and Lower Healthcare Costs

Insurance premiums are rising, and people across our state are feeling the strain. My legislation, S.8619, will improve transparency and help drive down the cost of health insurance. Watch as I demand transparency and affordability on the Senate Floor.

Lowering Insurance Premiums

Delivering for Our Region

New state funding is on the way to support vital local projects across Livingston, Wayne, and Ontario counties. These awards reflect a smart and responsible investment of taxpayer dollars. This funding will strengthen our communities. It also ensures public dollars are directed where they make the greatest impact for families, seniors, and local governments.

“We received a WQIP grant to replace our small, aging salt barn. The new salt barn will be large enough to cover all the salt needed for the season. This will prevent runoff and protect the groundwater supply. We thank Senator Helming for her support of the project and assistance in obtaining the grant.” - Said Dave Fantuzzo, Supervisor, Town of Huron.

“We appreciate the two grant awards. The assessment award will help lay the foundation to protect our residents and property from future storm events. The culvert replacement grant will finish repairing infrastructure damaged in last June’s storms. The town will utilize these funds soon as we plan to fix the culverts and complete the assessment." - Said David LeFeber, Supervisor, Town of Avon.

“We are most appreciative of the support we have received from Senator Helming in assisting our Village in receiving a $50,000 WQIP grant to address a culvert assessment. We have five such culverts, which are undersized and cause flooding and erosion to adjacent residential properties. This grant will lead us in rectifying this situation.” - Said Barry Haywood, Mayor, Village of Dansville.

Combatting Overdose Deaths

New York has seen a 28% decrease in overdose deaths from 2024 to 2025, and we must continue building on this progress.

I told Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, that the agency must close service gaps so people can get timely, reliable care close to home.

Scholarship Opportunities!
APPLY TODAY!

4-H Camp Bristol Hills Scholarship

4-H Camp Bristol Hills is offering camp scholarships for families who need a little extra support. Nearly $50,000 is available this year and no residency or 4-H membership required.

Scholarships can be used for any summer camp program they offer.

Application deadline: Sunday, March 1, 2026.

APPLY TODAY

FASNY Volunteer
Scholarship

High school seniors who are members of the Firefighters Association of the State of New York are eligible to apply. Children of members who actively volunteer are also invited to apply for the Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Memorial FASNY Volunteer Scholarship.

Applications are due Sunday, March 15, 2026.

APPLY TODAY

NY Conference of Italian-American Legislators Scholarship

The New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is now accepting applications for two $3,000 scholarships — one academic and one athletic. Eligible students must be New York residents who live in the 54th Senate District. Students do not need to be of Italian American heritage.

Application deadline: Monday, March 16, 2026

APPLY TODAY

Agricultural Youth Scholarship

High school seniors interested in pursuing a career related to agriculture can apply for New York Farm Bureau’s Agricultural Youth Scholarship.

Eligible students can use the financial award for college or advanced training in the skilled trades.

Applications are due Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

APPLY TODAY

The EquiCenter:
Strengthening Lives Across Our Region

The EquiCenter is an incredible asset to our region. EquiCenter serves people of all ages and abilities, with a special focus on individuals with disabilities, at-risk youth, and veterans. Through the therapeutic power of horses and nature, they create a supportive space for people to heal, find purpose, and feel connected.

Thank you to Chairman of the Board Charlie Fox, Executive Director Katherine Hatch, and the entire EquiCenter team for your dedication and the meaningful impact you make every day.

Working With Job Creators

When I meet with local businesses, they often talk about how difficult it is to navigate New York’s high costs and red tape.

I took the stage at the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce Legislative Panel to outline real solutions to lower the costs of childcare, healthcare, and energy, and to cut the red tape that’s holding back job creation.

Read my full plan below:

SAVE NY PLAN

Strengthening Agriculture & Protecting Our Vital Farmland

Collaborating with the New York Farm Bureau as we continue working together to keep agriculture strong and protect vital farmland.

We highlighted our work to eliminate the harmful regulations and unfunded mandates that drive up costs for our farmers. As a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, I remain committed to supporting our farmers and ensuring their voices are heard.

Partnering with Public Works Leaders

Led a meeting with our regional public works leaders — Kevin Rooney (Wayne County), Jason Wolfanger (Livingston County), Chris Day (Ontario County), and Tom Frys (Monroe County). Our counties face serious challenges in maintaining local infrastructure, and these leaders do an outstanding job serving our communities.

As the legislative session gets underway, I look forward to working together to modernize outdated regulations, control costs for taxpayers, and secure the resources our communities need.

Senate Committee Meetings Have Resumed

Senate committee meetings are now underway for the year. Here we review legislation, raise key questions, and make decisions that affect our communities.

These committee roles ensure our region has a strong voice on the issues that affect us every day. These include affordability, agriculture, economic growth, and overall quality of life.

Business Spotlight:
Story of Hope Comfort Home

The story of Hope Comfort Home shows what compassion and community can accomplish.

Founded by Hospice Nurse Arlene Nanry, this new home will provide end-of-life care at no charge so families can focus on being together.

Thank you to Sam Savary and Donna Soles for their leadership, and to the volunteers, donors, and supporters, including Bernie and Patty Iacovangelo and Villager Construction, whose generosity made this possible.

Supporting the Next Generation of Leaders

It’s always a pleasure welcoming student shadows from our local schools who are eager to learn more about public service. These visits are a great chance to talk about getting involved, answer their questions, and give them a firsthand look at our day-to-day work in state government.

Thank you to Victor Senior High School students Carly, Isabell, and Luis, and Canandaigua Academy students Lindsey, Maddie, and Vaughn for spending the day with us!