SPRINGFIELD – To increase donation opportunities to the Illinois Dream Fund, which provides scholarships to eligible college students, State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure from the Senate on Thursday. 

“Every student deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education if that is what they wish to do,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Dreamers are no different, and this initiative will increase funds for scholarships, giving more students the opportunity to attend college.”

House Bill 3233 allows customers who transmit money internationally the option to voluntarily donate a portion of their money to the Illinois Dream Fund, whose mission is to provide life-changing financial support to undocumented immigrants who wish to pursue higher education and help them successfully work toward degree completion.

Under this measure, the Illinois Dream Fund Commission will also develop a comprehensive program, including creation of informational materials and a marketing plan, to educate people in Illinois about the purpose and benefits of contributions made to the Illinois Dream Fund, such as increasing scholarship opportunities.

“Contributing to someone’s education is a wonderful and noble thing to do,” Villa said. “I encourage everyone who can donate to look into giving to the Illinois Dream Fund when the time comes.”

House Bill 3233 passed the Senate on Thursday.