Aquino, Hunter, Glowiak Hilton to host Senate hearing on diversity in labor unions

CHICAGO – To brainstorm how to bring diversity to labor unions, Senate Labor Committee Chair Omar Aquino, Executive Committee Chair Mattie Hunter and Commerce and Economic Development Committee Chair Suzy Glowiak Hilton will lead a joint hearing Thursday afternoon.

“Illinois is home of a diverse population. Four out of 10 residents are people of color. Just like everybody else, these workers pursue the means to support their families and execute their jobs under safe conditions,” Aquino said. “Unions are the backbone of a proper labor representation. That’s why I look forward to working with them in expanding opportunities for our workforce. The pre-apprenticeship programs are a great asset to offer job training and gather real-life experience, both elements key for finding a well-paying job.”

Read more: Aquino, Hunter, Glowiak Hilton to host Senate hearing on diversity in labor unions

Farm Family Resource Initiative offers new helpline

SPRINGFIELD – Area farmers who need someone to talk to about the everyday stresses of farming and pandemic-related challenges now have a new resource. A new helpline (1-833-FARM-SOS) will connect farmers to health professionals and services through the Farm Family Resource Initiative.

In addition to the helpline, the initiative offers ongoing outreach, education and training to rural partners working to improve the health and safety of farm families. Free webinars and trainings on psychological signs of stress and Mental Health First Aid offer program participants skill-building tools to meet the needs of rural clients and farmers.

“Small farms are the core of our state’s economy, and farmers are on the front lines to provide food for our communities. The reality of this pandemic is that a new layer of stress has been put on farmers and farm families,” said Senator Scott Bennett. “The Farm Family Resource Initiative and helpline will give farmers additional support to help folks recognize and navigate these times.”

Read more: Farm Family Resource Initiative offers new helpline

Glowiak Hilton joins advocates to discuss efforts to support Illinoisans with Alzheimer’s

OAKBROOK TERRACE – During a virtual event held by the Alzheimer’s Association, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to support residents living with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

“Many older adults are suffering from isolation and other health complications during the pandemic, and these effects can be even worse for the millions of Americans living with Alzheimer’s,” Glowiak Hilton said. “By supporting and advocating for residents, families and caregivers affected by the disease, we can improve care and provide additional resources where they are most needed.”

Read more: Glowiak Hilton joins advocates to discuss efforts to support Illinoisans with Alzheimer’s

Van Pelt: We need to invest in community health

CHICAGO – The Senate held a joint hearing Monday to discuss the vast disparities Illinoisans face in access to treatment for addiction and mental health disorders. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) advocates for prioritizing mental health through a holistic approach.

“It’s crucial that we examine the intersections of mental health, bias and incarceration rates,” said Van Pelt, chair of the Senate Public Health Committee. “One in five people shot and killed by the police suffered from mental illness. People who should be getting treated for their illnesses are instead being abused, killed and locked up. We must begin to look at these issues differently.”

Read more: Van Pelt: We need to invest in community health