Aurora, Ill. – Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) is pleased to learn the Illinois Department of Public Health has updated its guidance on allowing dental providers to resume routine oral and dental care beginning this week.

“IDPH’s decision lifts the limit to emergency and urgent needs to now let dentists resume routine oral and dental care, with the specific procedures to be taken to minimize the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in this setting,” Holmes said. “Area dentists contacted me about this issue and I’m glad we made this progress.”

SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker has awarded the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) $1.3 million in grants geared towards strengthening the early childhood workforce, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) announced Tuesday.

“Educators and their effective skills are central to students’ experiences in the classroom,” Lightford said. “I applaud Governor Pritzker in his efforts to ensure educators receive resources that gives them the opportunity to shape our children’s future.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) and other elected officials are partnering with community organizations to distribute masks to the Little Village community on Wednesday. Mask distribution is first come, first served, with priority given to seniors.

“Little Village has the highest infection rate in the entire state, and we need to make sure that the most vulnerable people in our community are protected,” Villanueva said. “We all must take precautions to protect them, so please come by to get a mask if you do not have one.”

Event partners include Enlace Chicago, Rincón Family Services and Telpochcalli Community Education Project.

WHO:  State Senator Celina Villanueva, Alderperson Michael Rodriguez, U.S. Representative Jesús “Chuy” García, Commissioner Alma E. Anaya, State Representatives Lisa Hernandez, Edgar Gonzalez and Aarón Ortíz

WHAT: Little Village Mask Distribution

WHEN: Wednesday, May 13, 2020 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: Second Federal Bank (West Parking Lot), 2520 S. Pulaski Rd., Chicago, IL 60623

MELROSE PARK – As testing continues to be a priority in stopping the spread of COVID-19, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) announced a new testing facility opening on May 11 in Melrose Park to serve Proviso Township residents.

“Nearby increased testing is imperative for the communities I represent,” Lightford said. “I am grateful for the work Access Community Network has done to launch their site and their continued commitment to the health of our local residents.”

As of May 7, Proviso Township had seen 2,052 confirmed cases of COVID-19.