Contacting Legislators

Guide to Sending an Introductory Email to Your Legislator: Focus on Family Caregiver Support

Advocating for better family caregiver support is an important way to make your voice heard and contribute to policy changes. Sending an introductory email to your legislator can help you build a relationship with them and bring attention to caregiver issues. This guide will help you craft a professional and effective introductory email.

1. Research Your Legislator

Before drafting your email, take time to:

• Identify your legislator: Use resources like "Who’s My Legislator" to find your elected representatives (local, state, or federal).

• Learn about their positions: Review their website, social media, or recent statements to see if they have addressed caregiving issues or healthcare policies.

2. Write a Clear Subject Line

Your subject line should quickly indicate the reason for your email. Examples:

• Introduction: Family Caregiver Challenges in [District Name]

• Advocating for Family Caregiver Support in [District Name]

• Request for Discussion on Caregiver Issues in [District Name]

3. Begin with a Professional Greeting

Start your email with a polite greeting. Use:

• Dear [Legislator’s Title] [Last Name],

If you're unsure about the title, you can just use their full name.

4. Introduce Yourself and Explain Your Connection to the Issue

Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you are writing. Share your role as a family caregiver or advocate.

Example:

• My name is [Your Name], and I am a family caregiver for my [family member's relationship, e.g., parent, spouse, child] in [your city or district]. I am writing to introduce myself and raise awareness of some of the challenges family caregivers face, especially regarding access to supportive services and resources.

5. Describe the Issue or Concern

Clearly explain the issue that family caregivers are facing. You might mention topics like the need for respite care, financial support, or other resources that are vital to family caregivers.

Example:

• Family caregivers often struggle with the lack of accessible respite care and financial assistance. Many of us are also navigating the complexities of Medicaid and other support programs, which can be difficult to understand and access.

6. Make a Specific Request

Let your legislator know what you are hoping for. Whether you want to request a meeting, support a policy change, or offer additional information, be clear about what you need.

Example:

• I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how we can improve support for family caregivers in our community. I am also happy to provide additional information or resources that may help address these concerns.

7. Close Professionally

Thank your legislator for their time and include your contact information.

Example:

• Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to connecting and working together on these important issues.
  Best regards,
  [Your Name]
  [Your Phone Number]
  [Your Email Address]