Cullerton urges local fire departments to take advantage of new grants

VILLA PARK – State Senator Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park) is encouraging local fire departments to take advantage of the state’s Small Equipment Grant program.

The program provides $3.3 million in funding across the state for firefighting personal protection equipment, infection control items and other small equipment. Organizations can be awarded up to $26,000.

“The COVID-19 pandemic serves as a reminder that our first responders and firefighters continuously put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe and healthy,” Cullerton said. “This grant program serves as a resource to assist in ensuring they have the vital tools and resources to do their jobs effectively.”

Read more: Cullerton urges local fire departments to take advantage of new grants

Villanueva encourages uninsured Illinoisans to visit ACA marketplace

CHICAGO – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) is encouraging uninsured and underinsured Illinoisans to visit the Affordable Care Act Marketplace during the open enrollment period, which runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15.

“Everyone needs and deserves health insurance,” Villanueva said. “This is the time of year when you can go to the ACA Marketplace and find or change insurance if you don’t have an employer-sponsored plan and you don’t qualify for Medicaid.”

This year, Illinoisans will be able to choose from 179 plans from eight insurance providers. There are also tax credits available to help lower-income residents reduce their monthly payments and find affordable coverage.

Read more: Villanueva encourages uninsured Illinoisans to visit ACA marketplace

Senate Democrats announce equity-centric health care transformation plan

Legislators to work with Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services and community partners to build a health care system that will better serve all Illinoisans

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate Democrats announced a new equity-centric health care plan Friday that addresses the social and structural determinants of health. State Senators Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) look forward to working with other state leaders to bring reform to the Illinois health care system.

“We need to use an equity lens and take a fresh look at health care in our under-served communities,” Hunter said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to invest in these necessary transformation projects, not only to level the playing field, but to create a culturally competent workforce of people who’ve faced their implicit biases and are ready to serve their communities.”

Read more: Senate Democrats announce equity-centric health care transformation plan

Crowe secures $15.2 million state grant for upgrades to Madison County Transit

MARYVILLE – To provide safe, reliable public transportation to residents across the Metro East, State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) announced a $15.2 million state grant for Madison County Transit (MCT) to construct a new administrative building and make other helpful upgrades for riders.

“Many residents depend on public transportation for access to health care, work and school, grocery stores, pharmacies, and other necessary travel,” Crowe said. “By investing in upgrades for MCT, we are making sure our transportation services keep up with the needs of the Metro East community.”

Read more: Crowe secures $15.2 million state grant for upgrades to Madison County Transit