Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.  Dear Neighbors, I hope you’re staying cool and hydrated during our July heatwave. Hopkins’ Raspberry Festival weekend was amazing as always! A fantastic way to show off our incredible community. Thank you to all those that spent countless hours making it successful from the food trucks, music, marketplace, fireworks, parade, and more!  Sunday’s rally at the Capitol for reproductive freedom was a big success. Thousands showed their support for bodily autonomy and a woman’s right to choose her own medical care. A huge thanks to all the amazing speakers who shared their stories and those that came out on a very hot day to stand up for Minnesota remaining pro-choice!  Last UpdateI’m writing today to let you know this will be my last email update until after the 2022 General Election. Whether running for re-election or not, legislators cannot use state resources for unsolicited communications during an election period because it might create an unfair advantage for incumbents. I am still able to respond to questions, your input, and inquiries for assistance, so please don’t hesitate to continue to reach out anytime at rep.cheryl.youkaim@house.mn or 651-296-9889. Although I won’t be able to send out these email updates for a while, you can still follow me on Facebook here. Here’s a brief update from the Capitol: Survey ReminderIf you haven't had a chance to yet, please take a moment to share your input by taking my short legislative survey. Your feedback is important and I appreciate knowing what's on your mind. Apply for Frontline Worker BonusTomorrow is the deadline for frontline workers to apply for a bonus for their work during the pandemic. Funds set aside for this program will be split equally among all approved applicants. I appreciate those who put themselves in harm’s way and encourage them to apply if eligible and to spread the word to friends and family.  Hometown Heroes Assistance Program UpdateAs a result of the bipartisan Hometown Heroes Assistance Program we passed into law, we’re already seeing an immense impact on firefighters' lives across the state – with free health and wellness resources to protect our hometown heroes and their families. I was honored to carry this legislation for our dedicated firefighting community.  You or a firefighter you know can access these free benefits and support today. Learn more about the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program here https://mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/. COVID-19 Update With the uptick of the new COVID-19 variants, I wanted to share that free at-home COVID-19 tests are available to order here. More COVID-19 updates are available through the Minnesota Department of Health website, or the U of M Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP). Even with vaccinations readily available, testing remains an important step to slowing the spread and keeping others safe. New 988 Hotline Mental health crises – and tragically, suicide – are becoming a greater public health concern. This past Saturday, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline transitioned to a new service with an easier-to-remember number to help those in need. Now, by dialing or texting 988, a trained mental health counselor is available 24 hours a day, seven days per week if you or someone close to you is experiencing a crisis.The new 988 system is better equipped to respond to mental health crises, and the new number will help ensure people can quickly get support. Workers can connect callers to additional support or in-person care. The service is free and confidential. Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime if you have thoughts, questions, or need any assistance at rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn or 651-296-9889. Email is the quickest way to get in touch. Thank you for the honor of representing you at the State Capitol. Have a great rest of the summer!  Cheryl Youakim
State Representative |