MAYWOOD – The Park District of Forest Park and Westchester Park District are set to receive over $1 million for land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford announced Friday.

“This funding will have a positive impact on our communities and help ensure they stay vibrant and welcoming,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Friends walking in the park, families going to the playground or individuals walking their dog will all feel the benefits of this grant program.”

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that has become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. The Park District of Forest Park is set to receive $424,200 and Westchester Park District will receive $600,000.

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Last week I joined Governor JB Pritzker to discuss a Blueprint for Transformation for providing state-of-the-art and best-practice treatment in behavioral health care for Illinois Children.

Investment in our state’s youth through a holistic, whole-child approach provides them with the key resources and support they need to succeed. We are taking a positive step toward ensuring families of children who struggle with severe behavior health needs are uplifted and have access to the high-quality care they deserve.

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In honor of Black History Month, Senate members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus shared Black history figures, events and moments that had the biggest impacts in their life. Check out what I shared here. #blackhistory

I had the opportunity to speak with Cory Thames on his podcast,” In My Own Words,” at CAN TV and share my life experiences and struggles I have faced. I am grateful to have shared these experiences that shaped my political journey and inspired the legislation I have worked on tirelessly to this day.

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