Pennsylvanians in Need Encouraged to Seek Help

Governor Ed Rendell says no one should be ashamed to seek government aid during the economic downturn. He spoke today at Brashear High School in Beechview. In a talk that was equal parts informational and motivational, Rendell described state help that's available to people in need and encouraged people to seek out services like food stamps and home heating assistance if they qualify.

Rendell announced earlier this week that an additional 16,000 Pennsylvanians would be covered under the state's AdultBasic health insurance plans. More than 200,000 people are now on the waiting list. The program currently does not include prescription drug benefits. Rendell says he's working with lawmakers now to try to change that. Other changes announced this week include additional aid for helping Pennsylvanians pay their heating bills, longer hours at CareerLink job centers, and help for homeowners who are struggling to keep up with their mortgages. The state has set up a website to serve as a starting point for residents seeking help.