CHICAGO – The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority announced a $255,000 funding opportunity to support justice-impacted individuals in need of transportation to meet their pre-trial court, probation or parole conditions, and State Senator Patricia Van Pelt is encouraging all who are eligible to apply.

“Many people do not have access to reliable transportation, which can affect whether or not they make it to court or a parole meeting on time,” said Van Pelt (D-Chicago). “These grants can help assist individuals who rely on transportation in order to avoid incarceration or other punishments.”

Grants will be made in the amounts of $40,000 to $50,000 and must be expended between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024. Supported with federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funds, this opportunity will offer grants to local units of government in both rural and urban counties to support programs that assist in providing transportation to court proceedings, court-ordered services, probation appointments, employment, community service and treatment.

In urban communities, public transportation is not always available or reliable. In addition, some clients become at increased risk for violence when moving through gang territories.

“Those who are reentering society deserve a fair shot, which means supplying them with the resources they need to successfully reintegrate into their communities,” Van Pelt said. “This program would give them a chance to reclaim their livelihoods and contribute to society.”

JAG funds may be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, and information systems for criminal justice in areas of law enforcement, the courts, drug treatment/enforcement, community corrections, and other aspects of the justice system.

The application deadline for this program is Nov. 10, 2022. Visit icjia.illinois.gov to learn more.