Sims announces southeast Chicago to receive nearly $1.5 million to help revitalize local businesses

CHICAGO— The Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce is set to receive $1,450,000 in grants to revitalize the local business community, thanks to State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago).

The Chamber of Commerce will receive funding from the Illinois Department of Economic Development to enhance and provide additional services to local businesses through its Rebuild Distressed Communities program. The grant is made possible by the state’s historic Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan.

Read more: Sims announces southeast Chicago to receive nearly $1.5 million to help revitalize local businesses

Castro encourages residents to submit nominations for the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame

ELGIN – To highlight older Illinoisans who excel in community service, education, the arts and the labor force, State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) is reminding residents to nominate an adult age 65 and over to the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame.

“We all have an older person in our life that has made an impact on us, whether it be a teacher, neighbor or family member,” Castro said. “Nominating them for this award is a great way to show your appreciation and spotlight all the ways older residents enrich our lives.”

Read more: Castro encourages residents to submit nominations for the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame

Munoz announces funding for local organization to revitalize community

CHICAGO – To revitalize the community while prioritizing businesses and affordable housing, Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council will receive nearly $1.5 million, Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) announced Tuesday.

The Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council is a not-for-profit community organization serving a large area of Chicago’s Southwest Side, including the communities of Brighton Park, McKinley Park and New City. BYNC was created in response to growing social issues, including social disorganization, unemployment, poor housing, and juvenile delinquency, and continues today to organize residents and bring social services and economic resources to the community.

Read more: Munoz announces funding for local organization to revitalize community

Senator Fine prioritizes suicide prevention with new 9-8-8 hotline

SPRINGFIELD – Individuals in crisis nationwide will soon be able to utilize a 9-8-8 universal hotline number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which would be funded and maintained in Illinois under legislation sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview).

“A fully functioning and well-funded crisis hotline is critical to prevent suicides nationwide,” Senator Fine said. “Mental health is as important as physical health, and 9-8-8 will soon become a household number that is as easily remembered in times of crisis as 9-1-1.”

Senator Fine’s measure would create the Statewide 9-8-8 Trust Fund in the State Treasury, which would be used by the Department of Human Services to establish and maintain a statewide 9-8-8 suicide prevention and mental health crisis system.

Read more: Senator Fine prioritizes suicide prevention with new 9-8-8 hotline