Dear neighbor,

I am proud to have been sworn in to my 26^th year in the Senate.

Throughout my tenure on the Senate Education Committee over the decades, I have passed landmark legislation, including the establishment of universal preschool, school breakfast programs, and full-day kindergarten access. My education reform law, Senate Bill 7, was praised as a "national model" by former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. In 2024, I sponsored legislation to establish The Department of Early Childhood in Illinois.

I have been a strong advocate for workers' rights, passing Illinois' Equal Pay Act in 2003 and leading efforts to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2025. I also sponsored legislation guaranteeing paid leave for all Illinois workers, effective 2024.

As Joint Chairman of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus (2015-2021), I led efforts to address systemic racism through a four-pillar agenda focusing on criminal justice reform, education, economic opportunity, and healthcare. I established Juneteenth as a state holiday and declared Feb. 28 as Black Women's History Day.

My work continues this year. I’m leading a number of measures including:

• SB 13: Establishes the Adequate and Equitable Public University Funding Formula for public universities
• SB 20: Regulates hemp derived THC commonly referred to as delta-8
• SB 28: Removes the requirement that student growth components be included in teacher evaluations
• SB 245: Requires state agencies and colleges to maintain participation goals for vendors who are businesses owned by minorities, women or persons with disabilities

I'm also leading measures to enhance funding to support unpaid family caregivers, expand programming to combat social isolation and much more.

As always, please reach out to my District Office at 708-632-4500 or by visiting www.senatorlightford.com/contact-us. You can also reach my Springfield office at 217-782-8505.

All the best,

Kimberly A. Lightford
Senate Majority Leader | 4th District

IN THE DISTRICT

Rescinding LGBTQ+ Youth  Press Conference

I was proud to attend the Rescinding LGBTQ+ Youth Support in Public Schools Press Conference on Jan. 31.

My child’s coming out taught me that true parental love means accepting and advocating for our children. This fight is urgent, especially after the recent federal executive order that rescinded vital protections for LGBTQI+ students.

As a parent, I understand the anxiety about my child's safety at school. Illinois has some of the strongest protections in the nation, and we will not compromise them. We have made significant strides: the Inclusive Curriculum Law in 2019, House Bill 2590 clarifying non-discrimination policies in 2021, and House Bill 246 supporting students' gender identity in 2022. To my fellow parents of LGBTQI+ youth: I share your anger and your worry. But know this – Illinois law protects our children. I got you!

 

Speaking at Healthy Maywood, West Cook County Summit

I had the honor of being the keynote speaker for the Healthy Maywood, West Cook Summit.

I shared my thoughts on the importance of addressing all areas of health, particularly regarding more health care support for caregivers. This topic is especially significant for me, as I am a caregiver for my beloved mother. I wanted to emphasize the importance of maternal health for Black and Brown women, ensuring they have a healthy and safe experience before, during, and after childbirth. I continued by discussing mental health care, the need for access to necessary treatments, affordable health care, and prescription medications.

 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

I recently had the privilege of sharing my stance on gun violence prevention strategies and the importance of civic engagement at Embrace Humanity for MLK 2025! Which was held at the Institute for Nonviolence Chicago.

"I feel like a broken record when I say, 'When will enough be enough?' Gun violence stresses public services, causes trauma, financial distress, and increased incarcerations. Redirecting resources could expand education, lift people out of poverty, and rebuild communities. Engage with legislators, organizations, and your community—sometimes, these issues resonate most when heard from a peer, family member, or colleague. Stay safe and healthy."

 

Hillside MLK Breakfast

My District Office and my Gentlemen & Women’s committee attended the 23rd Annual Hillside MLK Jr. Breakfast recently. This year's theme was "Dreamers Today, Leaders Tomorrow!" We had the pleasure of hearing from Congressman Danny Davis, who marched and worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We also enjoyed listening to inspiring essays written by three students from grades 6 to 8 on the theme, and the PMSA choir gave a fantastic performance with their singing and instrumentation!

 

Christmas in Proviso

Though the holidays have come and gone, the joy of giving lasts all year! This past season, my office had the privilege of celebrating Christmas in Proviso: A Season of Gratitude by gifting presents to 65 wonderful children. Their heartfelt thank-you letters to elected officials and partner organizations were a true highlight of the season.

Moments like these remind us the importance of community and the power of kindness and gratitude. Here's to carrying the holiday spirit into the year ahead!

 

AT THE CAPITOL

Celebrating 26 Years in Office

I recently celebrated my 26th year in office - and I was proud to take the oath for another term!

Looking back on my tenure in the General Assembly, I'm proud of how we've transformed Illinois into a more equitable and inclusive state, particularly for our youngest residents.

We've pioneered groundbreaking reforms in education – from implementing the nation's most equitable school funding model to creating new pathways for Black students' success and increasing diversity in our teaching workforce. Our unwavering commitment has been to ensure every child in Illinois has access to genuine opportunity, and I'll continue fighting for this vision in the years ahead.

It remains my deepest privilege to serve the 4th Senate District. Together, we've laid a strong foundation, but our potential for future achievement knows no bounds.

 

Increasing the Minimum Wage

Following a multi-year implementation period, the state’s minimum wage reached $15 per hour on Jan. 1, thanks to a law I passed in 2019.

As a state, we have helped countless workers make ends meet, reduce financial stress, and provide a more solid foundation for their futures. The $15 minimum wage is a testament to our commitment to economic justice and our belief that everyone who works full time deserves a living wage.

Read more: https://shorturl.at/Ujuzs

 

HEALTH UPDATES + RESOURCES

February is American Heart Month and National Cancer Prevention Month. Read on to learn more about both!

American Heart Month

• Between 2017 and 2020, 127.9 million U.S. adults had some form of CVD. Between 2020 and 2021, direct and indirect costs of total CVD were $417.9 billion.
• In 2017 to 2020 in the United States, 59.0% of non-Hispanic Black females and 58.9% of non-Hispanic Black males had some form of CVD. This race category had the highest prevalence of CVD.
• The American Heart Association gauges the cardiovascular health of the nation by tracking eight key health factors and behaviors that increase risks for heart disease and stroke. The eight key factors are: not-smoking, physical activity, healthy diet, healthy body weight, sleep health, and control of cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar.

National Cancer Prevention Month

The federal government estimates that 2 million Americans were diagnosed with cancer during 2024, and that more than 600,000 died from their disease.

Research shows that more than 40% of these cases and nearly half of the deaths can be attributed to preventable causes—smoking, excess body weight, physical inactivity, and excessive exposure to the sun, among others.

Studies have shown that residents who live in redlined and disadvantaged neighborhoods share a higher burden of cancer. An analysis of US cancer deaths during 2015–2019 in relation to residential segregation found that residents of disadvantaged neighborhoods had a 22 percent higher mortality rate for all cancers combined compared to those living in advantaged neighborhoods.

Findings of a recent study of women with breast cancer who were active duty, veteran or medical beneficiaries and were treated at a military health care system suggest that disparities in survival outcomes between Black and White patients are virtually eliminated when equitable access to quality health care is provided.

Health Resources

Illinois Department of Public Health Springfield Headquarters Office                                                                           

525-535 West Jefferson St.
Springfield, IL  62761
217-782-4977

Illinois Department of Public Health Chicago Headquarters Offices                                                                                        

122 S. Michigan Ave., 7th and 20th Floors
Chicago, IL  60603
312-814-2793                                                                                                      

69 W. Washington St., 35th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
312-814-5278

Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Medical Benefits Illinois Department of Human Services
[Apply on their website| 2701 W Lake St., Melrose Park, IL 60160]

Loyola School-Based Health Center @ Proviso East High School
[To schedule an appointment, call (708) 852-3094 or go to Room 86B at Proviso East High School]

RESOURCES FOR YOU

Black History Month Program

I am pleased to co-host with the men of Alpha Phi Alpha, A Black History program titled: A history of our people from kemet to present!

Our special guest speaker is Anthony Browder, a renowned historian and author. He is a distinguished authority and a highly respected figure in the field of black history, with a profound commitment to the preservation and promotion of Black culture. This is a FAMILY AFFAIR! We encourage that you invite all of your family and friends to attend.

Location: Proviso East High School 807 S. 1st Ave. Park in the Madison side parking lot and enter door 6

START TIME: 10 a.m. SHARP. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE arrive no later than 9:30 a.m.

 

 

2025 Townships of Illinois Scholarship Application

Each year, since 1989, the Township Officials of Illinois Scholarship Fund awards funds to graduating high school seniors to continue their education at Illinois colleges/universities. The deadline to apply is March 1. Learn more and apply today.

Birthing Health Screening Program

Cook County Health has launched a new Birthday Health Screening Program. The program encourages Cook County residents who meet the clinical guidelines for breast or prostate cancer screening to schedule an appointment at CCH during their birthday month. The screenings will be free of cost for the majority of patients.

Help for fire station construction or rehabilitation is here!

Strong fire stations build safer communities. Fire departments in need can apply for up to $350,000 in state funding to repair, upgrade or build stations. Applications close Feb. 28. Learn more.

 

Stay safe this winter

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks from overexertion. Stay safe this winter with these winter weather safety and preparedness tips.

 

 

Help Stop Hate

A new portal has been released to provide confidential support for our communities and neighbors affected by hate. Help Stop Hate will assist people in accessing the resources they need – such as physical and mental health care, trauma support and more.

To file a report and receive help, visit IlStopHate.org or call 877-458-4283. 

EV rebate application opens this month

The Illinois EPA’s next Electric Vehicle Rebate Program funding cycle is opening on Jan. 21, with $14 million available for rebates for the current fiscal year, which ends on April 30. You can learn more about the Illinois Electric Vehicle Rebate Program here.

Utility bill assistance

Illinois families most in need can apply for utility bill assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This includes seniors, people with disabilities, families with children under age 6 and households facing utility disconnection. Learn more and apply here or call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.

Licensing processing updates

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is expanding its pilot program for licensees looking to reinstate or restore their licenses. Professionals with 18 different license types can now find their reactivation requirements online instead of contacting IDFPR to determine their criteria.

Rental assistance program open

The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program provides financial assistance to tenants and landlords who have pending cases in eviction court. Applicants may qualify for up to $15,000 in emergency rental payments that can be applied to past due rent, up to $500 for court costs, and up to two months’ future rent to prevent eviction. Learn more and see if you qualify here.

Dear neighbor,

We’ve been busy in the 4th District! Keep reading to learn more about resources for you as well as what I have been up to.

My staff and I are always here to help — please reach out to us at 708-632-4500 or online if you need assistance.

All the best,

Kimberly A. Lightford
Senate Majority Leader

RESOURCES AND GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

Stay alert: Scams targeting student loan borrowers

Scammers are trying to take advantage of student loan uncertainty with false promises of loan forgiveness and lower monthly payments. You don’t need to pay for help – student loan assistance is available for free through the U.S. Department of Education or your loan servicer. Learn more here. If you believe you’ve been affected, call the Illinois Attorney General’s student loan helpline at 1-800-455-2456.

Help with utility bills is here

Illinois families can now apply for utility bill assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Learn more and apply at HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.

Rental assistance program open now

The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program provides financial assistance to tenants and landlords who have pending cases in eviction court. Applicants may qualify for up to $15,000 in emergency rental payments that can be applied to past due rent, up to $500 for court costs, and up to two months’ future rent to prevent eviction. Learn more and see if you qualify at IllinoisHousingHelp.org.

Licensing processing updates

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is expanding its pilot program for licensees looking to reinstate or restore their licenses. Professionals with 18 different license types can now find their reactivation requirements online instead of contacting IDFPR to determine their criteria.

Grants available for new grocery stores in food deserts

Eligible entities can apply for funding to combat food insecurity across Illinois through the second round of the New Stores in Food Deserts Program. This Illinois Grocery Initiative supports new independent, nonprofit and co-op grocery stores, as well as new stores run by local governments. Learn more and apply by Monday, Dec. 2 by visiting the DCEO website.

IN THE DISTRICT

Special Heart Award

For those of you who don’t know, aside from being the Senate Majority Leader, I spend a great amount of time taking care of my mother. My mother is my rock and the backbone of our family. She is the reason I am where I am today. I am her caregiver out of love – but I was honored to receive the “Special Heart” award from Wynona Redmond, founder of “Dear Me Care Circle Inc.”

The Brunch Bunch

My friend Reverend Janette Wilson Esq. and I joined Wynoa Redmond's Community Charter on The Brunch Bunch with Marseil Jackson and Tammy Fair, Inspiration 1390AM earlier this month.

13th Annual Grandparent Raising Grandchildren Event

In support of the grandparents within the 4th Senate District for their commendable efforts, it was a tremendous honor to celebrate and welcome over 130 attendees to the 13th annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and inducted 21 new grandparents into the Hall of Fame on Grandparents Day.

It was an elegant evening where the grandparents could feel cherished, walk on the red carpet, partake in dinner, enjoy the live band and praise dancers, raffle prizes, and receive community resources for seniors/ grandparents. Honorees were presented with a State Certificate, which officially inducted them into the Grandparents Hall of Fame. 

 

Donations to Love Purse

I teamed up with DuPage County legislators to host a Love Purse donation drive to support domestic violence survivors. The #LovePursemovement is a small way we can support and uplift women in need and survivors of domestic violence.

League of Women Voter’s Gala

I attended the 100th Anniversary Gala of the League of Women Voters of Oak Park River Forest alongside President Cathy Adduci, President Vicki Scaman, and Mayor Rory Hispkins. The celebration honored not only the organization's longevity but also the quality of service it has provided over the past century. Congratulations on reaching this milestone!

Investment in Chicago Community Loan Fund

I was proud to join Governor JB Pritizker and JPMorganChase along with community and nonprofit leaders for an exciting announcement detailing new investments in Chicago Community Loan Fund to support affordable housing development in Chicago's South and West sides.

Resource Fair

My office was happy to participate in PLCCA's Bridging the Gap Community Resource Fair recently. It was a day of fun activities, giveaways and beautiful fall weather. Through the event, we were able to offer support and resources for all 14 villages in the Proviso Township!

Family Fall Fun Day

I hosted my annual back to school supplies giveaway this year as a Family Fall Fun Day on Sept. 22 at Brookfield Zoo in the Discovery Center! Families were able to get school supplies and resources from the resource fair to use on a day-to-day basis throughout the scholastic year. We had face painting, dancing, and snacks, as well as families being able to visit the zoo all day for no cost. The Family Fall Fun Day was a day full of fun and great memories!

GEAAC Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority Inc.'s College and Career Fair

On Sept. 28 I attended GEAAC Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority Inc.'s College and Career Fair with a resource table. I spoke to the students throughout the 4th District about college, applying for scholarships, and how to get internships for the careers of their choice!

5th Annual Tour De Proviso Bike Ride

On Oct. 5, Mayor Harvey and the Bellwood Community hosted the 5th Annual Tour De Proviso. I started the race and got the bike riders ready for a six mile ride – and for the very first time some riders rode for 20 miles throughout Proviso Township. It was followed up with a resource fair and food trucks. We had a healthy lifestyle fun day.

National Association of Black Military Women

I welcomed the National Association of Black Military Women to Illinois for its 23rd Biennial Convention, celebrating women veterans and active members of the U.S. Armed Forces. I expressed my honor in being invited and gratitude for their dedication and service, emphasizing their commitment and resilience in overcoming unique challenges as Black women in the military. I also highlighted the need to address the "visibility and invisibility of Black leaders in our society."

Westchester Fire department Open House introducing Chief Manning

I recently attended Westchester's Fire departments open house and welcomed the new fire department Chief Manning! We greeted Westchester and the surrounding neighborhood residents and passed out resources from the resource table, while welcoming Chief Manning to his new role.

PT Man Breakfast Networking Meeting

I was proud to deliver a powerful message on "How to Combine Political Stewardship with Community Partnership" at the PT Man Breakfast Networking Meeting.

Maywood Fine Arts Pumpkin Patch

I attended the Maywood Fine Arts Pumpkin Patch to celebrate fall and Halloween!

2nd Annual Austin Community Resource Fair and Westside Long Term Recovery Group

With over 50 vendors, the fair offered a wealth of information and services to residents of the Austin community, attracting attendees from as far as the southernmost parts of the city and even from Indiana. 

The event saw attendance from over 58 individuals, with at least 16 receiving assistance from FEMA and the SBA. The WLTRG was pleased to organize this year's resource fair, offering a chance to deliver services to seniors in need. Walgreens administered more than 14 flu shots and shared details about their healthcare services. Numerous vendors were also present, enjoying the delectable offerings such as shrimp and grits, sandwiches, waffles, and chicken, all expertly prepared by Chef Anjail Neal.

ETIP Grant Award

My chief of staff Kimberly Tate joined IMA in presenting an ETIP grant check to Principal Manufacturing Corp in Broadview on behalf of Senator Lightford. The IMA facilitates the Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP)grant on behalf of the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. Through this relationship, the IMA provides grants to manufacturers across the state who choose to upgrade the skills of their full-time workers to remain current in new technologies and business practices.

BAW Sunday Funday

Last week I hosted my 2nd Annual BAW Sunday Funday Luncheon.  The theme was Shades of Red. We enjoyed shopping, and celebrating the 10 Badass Women Honorees, as well as a beautiful performance from Keya Tramell!

Dear neighbor,

I hope you and your family are keeping cool and enjoying the summer.

Read on to learn more about new laws on the books, resources for you, upcoming events and other helpful information.

As always, feel free to reach out to my office for assistance by calling 708-632-4500 or sending us a note online.

Sincerely,

Kimberly A. Lightford

State Senator | 4th District

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

It was an honor to join Governor JB Pritzker, other elected officials and community partners for the signing of Senate Bill 1 into law. SB1 creates the Department of Early Childhood – an initiative which symbolizes our commitment to a holistic, trauma-informed approach to meeting the diverse needs of our youngest citizens. Thank you to everyone who helped in advancing this legislation and all those who embraced this opportunity to shape a brighter future for all our children!

Learn more about the Department of Early Childhood here.

IN THE DISTRICT

4th of July Celebration

On Independence Day, my district office and committee joined Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch for his annual 4th of July parade in Westchester! It was wonderful to visit with so many community members and families, including some from Proviso Township.

Loretto Hospital's Men Health Fair

My office and Men's Committee participated in Loretto Hospital's Men’s Health Fair event on Saturday, June 1. This free health fair provided men in Austin and surrounding communities the opportunity to learn about common health conditions that affect men, as well as how to treat and prevent them. 

Attendees heard from medical experts from Loretto Hospital and participated in an in-depth discussion covering topics such as prostate health, diabetes, nutrition, mental health, and more. In addition to learning about men’s health topics, attendees had access to local community resources and information. The event closed out with a special Empowerment Message for men in honor of Father’s Day.

We Love Our Men - Prostate Cancer Awareness Event

My office, in collaboration with the Women's Committee, Loyola Medical Center, and Loretto Hospital, distributed 320 informational bags to men in participating barber shops across the west side and the western suburbs. Medical staff from both institutions were present to discuss early protection and the services available at the hospitals.

We Adore Our Women - Breast Cancer Awareness

My office, in collaboration with her Men's Committee, Loyola Medical Center, and Loretto Hospital, distributed 320 informational bags to women in participating beauty and nail salons across the west side and the western suburbs. Medical staff from both institutions were present to discuss early protection and the services available at the hospitals.

Taste of Oak Brook

 

It was an honor to join families, friends, community partners and Village of Oak Brook Mayor Paul Esposito for the Taste of Oak Brook celebration on July 3! I had the opportunity to deliver remarks and open the evening's festivities. We enjoyed good food, fun music and a fantastic firework display!

Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) grant awarded to Graymills Corp

Kim Tate, my chief of staff, extended congratulations and participated in the presentation where Graymills Corp was awarded a check for an Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) grant by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (ILDCEO). With over 80 years of operation, Graymills has evolved into a well-established global manufacturer that fosters industry innovation, leverages employee skills, and produces quality equipment. After the presentation, Kristen and Craig, the owners, took us on a tour of the facility.

National Black Caucus-Local Elected Officials Summer Conference

It was an honor to serve as the keynote speaker at the 2024 National Black Caucus-Local Elected Officials Summer Conference! This year's theme was, "From Leadership to Legacy: Continuing to Fulfill the Promise." During my presentation, I shared insights from my professional journey thus far, detailing my beginnings and the guidance that has gotten me where I am today. I also had the opportunity to share more about the ILBC's Four Pillars and our FY 25 state budget.

Juneteenth Celebrations

We had a Juneteenth kick-off party at The Red Door Meeting Place in Broadview to start the celebration of Freedom in the 4th District, where just two years ago I passed the bill making Juneteenth a state-wide holiday!

My office continued the celebration at The Village of Broadview’s Juneteenth Freedom Celebration June 14-16, having our signature summertime tent and a resource table! I spent time greeting and speaking to constituents about the importance of Juneteenth and freedom today, not just in the lives of African Americans, but all lives.

The Juneteenth Celebrations didn’t stop there! I had a great time at the U.S. Bank Juneteenth Celebration. Then I headed to the Village of Westchester’s freedom walk & Juneteenth Flag raising as well as Speaker Welch’s 4^th Annual Juneteenth Celebration.

Age Option Award Winner

I was honored to receive the 2024 Champion Award at Age Options' 50^th Anniversary celebration reception.

ANCC visits Loyola University Medical Center

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) conducted a site visit at Loyola University Medical Center (LUMC) to evaluate the institution for its 4th Magnet Redesignation. Achieving Magnet Designation represents the pinnacle of recognition for Nursing Excellence in hospitals. During the community panel with the ANCC, my chief of staff, Kimberly Tate, contributed insights on the LUMC's visibility within the 4th Senate District and the collaborative efforts with Senator Lightford's annual events, alongside the economic influence and the caliber of nursing care provided.

Starbucks in Maywood is Open!

 

Maywood is progressing! The Starbucks in the Village of Maywood has officially opened its doors. My office attended the grand opening to join the celebration. We are thrilled to announce new sales and property tax revenues that will contribute to sustainable initiatives, benefiting our residents for the foreseeable future.

Lincoln Tech - Melrose Park Campus Career Fair & Tour

Kimberly Tate, my chief of staff, attended the Lincoln Tech - Melrose Park Campus Career Fair & Tour. The tour, interactions with students, and the presence of vendors were all outstanding. It was gratifying to learn about the comprehensive services aimed at sustaining student engagement and ensuring completion, as well as the employment opportunities available. The event enjoyed a large attendance and received positive feedback. Representing Senator Lightford, Kimberly Tate not only motivated the students but also expressed gratitude to the employer partners for providing insights into career opportunities.

The ILBCF Annual Scholarship Award Reception

I am proud to have championed the ILBCF scholarship, giving away a total of $150,000 – that’s enough for 100 students to receive $1,500 each!

RESOURCES FOR YOU

Farmers market coupons available to seniors

Farmers market season is in full swing, and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is here to help older adults buy fresh, local produce at Illinois farmers markets from July through October.

Eligible participants must be at least 60 years old and have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level ($2,322 monthly for a single household; $3,151 monthly for a two-person household). For more information and to apply, interested seniors should contact the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Beat the heat!

Heat and humidity started early this summer, and more days of extreme heat are on the way. Be sure to stay hydrated with water, avoid strenuous activity during mid-day and learn the signs of heat stroke. Never leave children and pets in a vehicle, and know the difference between a heat watch and a heat warning. Get more tips and information on local cooling centers, energy efficiency and more on the Keep Cool Illinois website.

New: Book FAFSA help online

There’s still time to apply for financial aid for college this fall! The Illinois Student Assistance Commission is offering free application help through members of ISACorps — recent college grads who are experts in financial aid and college planning. ISACorps members are available to meet virtually one-on-one to answer questions and help students complete the FAFSA or Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid.

Down payment assistance available for new homebuyers

The Illinois Housing Development Authority offers forgivable assistance to help Illinoisans achieve the dream of homeownership. Through IHDA’s programs, first-time and repeat homebuyers can find approved mortgage lenders and receive up to $10,000 in down payment assistance. Learn more at www.IHDAMortgage.org.

2024-25 free & reduced-price school meal eligibility

The Illinois State Board of Education announced federal eligibility guidelines for students to receive free and reduced-price lunch, breakfast and after-school snacks for the 2024-25 school year. Families should contact their local school district for details about accessing free and reduced-price meals, as the process may vary. To determine students’ eligibility, view income guidelines here.

Provide input on Illinois’ 2026 Public Transportation Plan

Next Move Illinois is a new statewide public transportation plan that will incorporate feedback from transit users and providers to help address the needs of diverse communities across the state, including enhanced accessibility. The Illinois Department of Transportation is inviting the public to participate in the first Next Move Illinois survey to help them establish a vision for transit services across the state. Whether or not you are a transit user, your input is a valuable part of strengthening our transportation network. Take the quick survey here, and learn more about the Next Move transportation plan here.