On Tuesday, January 27, the office of Senator Samra Brouk (SD-55) hosted its 6th Annual Rochester Area Budget Forum. The budget forum can be viewed on Senator Brouk’s Facebook page. The forum brought together local organizations, community leaders, and constituents– allowing them to voice their thoughts on Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed FY 2027 Executive State Budget.

Community members from different backgrounds and organizations– such as Lifespan of Greater Rochester, Hillside, AARP, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Goodwill of the Fingerlakes, Center for Employment Opportunities, IONY, and more– brought up issues that are important to them, including: services for older adults and the aging population, children’s behavioral health, culturally-competent community-based mental health; utility affordability; supporting healthcare workers with liveable wages, workforce development; increasing housing vouches for low-income community members; and protecting and aiding our immigrant communities. 

Senator Samra Brouk (SD 55): “I want to thank our community members for participating in our annual budget forum. As an elected official, it is my privilege and duty to hear about my community’s most pressing concerns. Although we will face challenges and roadblocks at the federal level, I will fight to protect critical funding in the New York State budget. My colleagues and I will continue to be your voice in Albany by supporting anti-poverty funding, expanding access to mental health resources, and uplifting our young people.”