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 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration.
Age Option Award Winner
I was honored to receive the 2024 Champion Award at Age Options' 50th 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.
