I first met Amy Kennedy when I participated in her “Day of Action” rally in Wildwood in January. She announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for the 2nd District U.S. House seat earlier that month.

I was drawn to her and uplifting message and her warmth and willingness to reach out to all who participated. She asked that we start the day by contributing to the Atlantic City Food Bank, after which we were introduced to Martin Luther King III. I felt an excitement for a local candidate yhat I had not felt in a very long time.

I studied Kennedy’s policy positions and was impressed, not only with her teaching background, but her emphasis on mental wellness advocacy for children and teens. This is incredibly important based on the challenges many of the students face at home in South Jersey. As a substitute paraprofessional, I have seen the struggles first hand.

Kennedy’s emphasis on post-high-school education is spot-on for the kids of the district, with affordability being key. She recognizes this is the only way they will be able to succeed and flourish. If elected, Kennedy would also address the need to retrain current workers, lifting them economically for job stability and security for their families.

I support Amy Kennedy because she will provide the kind of representation that the 2nd District deserves.

Susan Luongo, Cherry Hill

Editor’s note: The writer also has an address in Ocean City, which is within the 2nd District. Amy Kennedy is among six Democrats who have filed for the party nomination in the July 7 primary election. In November, the winner is expected to face Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew.