Dear Neighbor,
As we welcome 2026, we celebrate new beginnings, renewed opportunities, and the chance to continue building a stronger, more vibrant community together. This year, my commitment to serving the residents of the 4th Senate District remains steadfast, and I look forward to working alongside you to create positive change, strengthen neighborhoods, and expand opportunities for all.
May this New Year bring you and your family peace, joy, and hope. Read about updates from the 2025 veto session, highlights from our most recent events, and upcoming community programs and resources that support families across our district. From advocating for equitable funding to addressing critical community needs, we continue to work on policies that directly impact our neighborhoods.
As always, my office is here to assist you with state services, legislative questions, or connecting with community programs. Contact us at 708-632-4500 or visit www.SenatorLightford.com.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, opportunity, and the promise of new beginnings!
Warm regards,
Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford
NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL
Safeguarding our resident’s rights
I was proud of legislation aimed at safeguarding the constitutional rights of Illinois residents and maintaining secure access to essential public services during increased federal immigration enforcement operations in Chicago and throughout Illinois. What we're seeing isn't just happening somewhere else: it’s happening right here, in Chicago and Broadview, in our schools, in our hospitals and in our neighborhoods. This is not who we are. This is not what Illinois stands for. Read more
Restoring access to scholarships
In response to a lawsuit that claimed the Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, I supported a measure to update the Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois Act and the MTI Scholarship Program – ensuring programs administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission and the Illinois State Board of Education can continue supporting students and educators while aligning with federal laws on race-based funding and DEI programs.
Securing transportation funding
Throughout the negotiation process for the transportation overhaul measure, I was a strong advocate for ensuring that minority communities received the attention and resources they deserve. I am proud to report that my efforts were successful, securing $30 million to help reopen the LeClaire Avenue station between the Laramie Avenue and Central Avenue exits on the Blue Line.
This funding will support the engineers and crews working to rebuild and improve public transportation on the West Side of Chicago, enhancing accessibility, connectivity, and opportunities for residents. Ensuring equitable access to reliable transit is essential for strengthening our neighborhoods, supporting economic growth, and improving the daily lives of our community members.
IN THE DISTRICT
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Annual Event
This year’s 16th annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Event was especially meaningful, as it was dedicated to the loving memory of my late mother, Barbara Ann Beasley Lightford. She had a vision to create an event that would not only honor grandparents who are raising their grandchildren, but acknowledge the lack of support they don’t receive as caregivers. In honor of her, we provide them with a day that is specifically for their enjoyment, relaxation and entertainment. Additionally, I want to let them know that I appreciate them for parenting for a second time and caring for their children and families, and not allowing them to become victims of the system.
PNC Austin Branch and Forty Acres Fresh Market
A healthy neighborhood starts with access to quality food and good jobs, and we celebrated both. Forty Acres Fresh Market is a new Black-owned business in the Austin community, and I had the honor of meeting the owner, a Black woman entrepreneur who is bringing fresh opportunities and investment to the neighborhood. This partnership is an example of how businesses, community leaders and residents can come together to build a stronger, more vibrant Austin. On behalf of the state, and all who call Austin home, I want to congratulate both PNC and Forty Acres for their investment in our community.
Answer Inc., Met Gala for Autism Awareness
I was honored to chair the Answer Inc. Met Gala for Autism Awareness, where I was unexpectedly recognized with the Legislator of the Year Award. This special occasion celebrated an important cause and highlighted the incredible work being done to support individuals and families affected by autism.
The Answer, Inc. has been a true beacon of hope in our community, providing vital resources, support, and advocacy for individuals with autism and developmental disorders. Their unwavering commitment helps ensure that families receive the education, services, and inclusion they need to thrive. Through their work, The Answer, Inc. is not only raising awareness but also building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Thank you to Debra Vines, CEO of The Answer, Inc., for hosting such a meaningful evening dedicated to awareness, advocacy, and positive change in our community.
Total Capacity Training Development Center Grand Opening
TCTDC was born from the vision of strong women who understood that wisdom shared is wisdom multiplied. They recognized that our youth – ages 10 to 17 – don't just need programs and schooling but they also need purpose, skills, and most importantly, they need people who believe in their potential.
Through hands-on programs in cooking, sewing, education, and community service, this center will build confidence, create opportunities, and nurture the next generation of leaders our community desperately needs. I am proud to have been the sponsor of the Rebuild Illinois capital funding to this project and help make the dream of TCTDC a reality.
Tour De Proviso
Cycling through our neighborhoods, the Tour de Proviso brings energy, excitement, and community spirit to every corner of our district! My staff proudly participated in this year’s Tour de Proviso, supporting riders and engaging with residents throughout the event. My team also hosted a resource table and provided water and snacks to help keep riders hydrated and energized as they traveled through our community.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all the participants, volunteers, and organizers whose dedication and hard work made this event such a tremendous success. Events like the Tour de Proviso not only showcase the pride and vitality of our community but also promote fitness, healthy living, and wellness while strengthening connections among neighbors, local organizations, and public leaders.
Bellwood’s Hispanic Heritage Event
Celebrating the richness of culture and community is always a joyful experience! My office had the pleasure of participating in the Bellwood Hispanic Heritage Event, a vibrant celebration that recognizes the critical contributions and rich histories of Hispanic and Latino populations in our communities. This event highlights the important influence Hispanic and Latino residents have on our culture, society, and democracy, from shaping local traditions to driving community initiatives and civic engagement.
It was inspiring to see families, community leaders, and local organizations come together to honor and uplift Bellwood’s Hispanic community. Events like this not only celebrate culture and history but also strengthen the bonds within our neighborhoods, reminding us of the value of diversity and the power of unity. Thank you to everyone who joined in this meaningful celebration and helped make it a memorable occasion for all.
Aspire's Employment Training Program Ribbon Cutting
Creating pathways to meaningful employment is vital for building stronger, more inclusive communities. I was thrilled to attend Aspire’s Employment Training Program ribbon cutting alongside my staff. This innovative program empowers individuals with disabilities to develop valuable skills, gain hands-on experience, and access opportunities that enable them to thrive in the workforce.
Aspire’s dedication to inclusion and workforce development is truly commendable, and I am proud to recognize them as the only organization in Illinois selected to participate in this federally funded program. Programs like this not only strengthen our local economy but also demonstrate the power of community organizations to provide essential support and opportunities for all residents.
Children's Advocates for Change: Youth Public Policy Leadership Program
The future of our community looks bright! I was honored to spend time with the incredible young leaders at Michelle Clark High School who are participating in the Children’s Advocates for Change Youth Public Policy Leadership Program. This program empowers students to explore public policy, engage in civic leadership, and develop solutions for issues affecting their communities.
Hearing their innovative ideas, energy, and passion for making a difference was truly inspiring. From advocating for local improvements to proposing initiatives that address social challenges, these students are already demonstrating the leadership and vision needed to shape a stronger, more inclusive future. Their dedication is a powerful reminder of why investing in youth programs and encouraging civic engagement is essential for our community’s growth and success.
HOLIDAY GIVING AND SUPPORT
2025 McDonald’s and Food for the Body & Spirit Turkey Distribution
Celebrating the season of giving, one turkey at a time! My staff had an amazing time volunteering at the 2025 McDonald’s and Food for the Body & Spirit Turkey Distributions in the Village of Broadview and at the Madison location on the West Side of Chicago. It was heartwarming to see volunteers and community partners come together to provide families with holiday meals and support, helping ensure that everyone in our community could enjoy a joyful Thanksgiving.
Housing Forward: Living a Life of Gratitude
As the keynote speaker, I was honored to join Housing Forward for their Living a Life of Gratitude event. Upon entering the room, I was met with warm and resounding applause—a powerful reminder of the purpose behind the work I do as a legislator to serve and uplift our community. It reinforced why I am committed to advocating for policies and programs that address housing stability, access to essential services, and the needs of vulnerable families across our districts.
The event provided an inspiring opportunity to reflect on resilience, thankfulness, and the importance of supporting our neighbors. I remain dedicated to working alongside organizations like Housing Forward and other community partners to ensure that individuals and families have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Events like this demonstrate the impact we can have when government, nonprofits, and community members work together to strengthen our communities.
WestSide Community Stakeholders Turkey Giveaway
Giving back to our community is at the heart of the holiday season. My office had the pleasure of joining the West Side Community Stakeholders for their annual turkey giveaway. Seeing volunteers and community partners come together to support families during the Thanksgiving season truly reflects the strength and generosity of our community.
I was happy to help sponsor this event, ensuring that families had access to a warm holiday meal. Our sincerest appreciation goes to Reverend Walter Jones Jr., Executive Director of Fathers Who Care, and to the Westside Community Stakeholders for their dedication and hard work in making this event a success for our West Side constituents.
Leader Lightford and Speaker Welch Join Hands For Annual Ham and Turkey Giveaway
Sharing holiday well-wishes and connecting with residents is always one of the most meaningful parts of this season. I was happy to partner with Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch to host our annual ham and turkey giveaway for families across the district. This event gave constituents the opportunity to receive a Thanksgiving meal item along with additional health care resources.
A total of 250 hams and turkeys were distributed, and we remain committed to supporting families and addressing food insecurity in our communities. Special thanks to Meridian for sponsoring this wonderful occasion and helping make it a success.
Nicor Gas Community Resource Fair
Access to the right resources can make all the difference. My staff proudly participated in the Nicor Gas Community Resource Fair, where they hosted a resource table, connected residents with service providers, and assisted with packaging Thanksgiving dinner boxes for families in need. These boxes included fresh vegetables, cann+ed goods, and other holiday essentials such as macaroni and stuffing, helping ensure families had the items necessary to prepare a complete Thanksgiving meal.
Events like this play a critical role in ensuring families are informed about available assistance programs and community services—especially during the colder months, when access to reliable utilities, food resources, and financial support is essential. We are grateful to Nicor Gas and all participating organizations for their continued partnership and commitment to supporting residents and strengthening our communities.
Christmas in Proviso
Christmas came early this year as families across Proviso Township gathered for Christmas in Proviso, an annual community tradition spearheaded by Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch. This special event brings together elected officials, local businesses, and community organizations to provide gifts, toys, and holiday meals to hundreds of pre-selected, low-income families, helping address affordability challenges during the holiday season.
I was delighted to join families, volunteers, and community partners at this year’s celebration. Seeing the joy on children’s faces and experiencing the generosity of our community was truly heartwarming. I was especially proud that my office was recognized for having the best decorations for the third year in a row—a fun reminder of the spirit, teamwork, and care we bring to serving our community during the holidays.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Walmart, Black Star Project, and Teresa’s Adult Daycare for their generous contributions, which played a critical role in helping us secure presents for 30 families and more than 60 children in our community. Their support helped ensure that families were able to experience the joy and warmth of the holiday season, creating meaningful moments and lasting memories for children and parents alike.
I would also like to give a special and heartfelt shout-out to my 4th Senate District Committee, whose dedication, coordination, and hard work made this event possible. From planning and setup to ensuring everything ran smoothly throughout the day, their commitment to service and community was evident every step of the way.
Because of the generosity and teamwork of our community partners, volunteers, and staff, this event was truly a success. It was a wonderful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together to support one another, and it was a joy to share such a meaningful experience with the families we serve.
RESOURCES FOR YOU
Happy New Year!
From my family to yours, I’m wishing you a Happy New Year!
Food Pantries in the 4th Senate District
Food banks act as a central hub for collecting, sorting and storing large-scale food donations, which will then distribute donations to local food pantries in the 4th District. If you, your family or anyone you know is in need of assistance, visit my website at www.SenatorLightford.com/District-Info/Food-Pantries to find a list of pantries in our communities.
DCEO Funding Opportunities
STAR (Sales Tax and Revenue) bonds are a specialized financing tool that helps communities fund major tourism, entertainment, retail, and destination-based projects. These bonds work by capturing future sales tax revenue generated within designated STAR bond districts to pay back the initial investment. Recently expanded through the Statewide Innovation Development and Economy Act, STAR bonds are now available to municipalities throughout the state, giving local governments more options to finance capital projects that will draw visitors and stimulate their local economies.
The program offers significant flexibility in how communities can use these funds. Eligible projects range from major entertainment venues and sports complexes to cultural attractions, retail developments, and infrastructure improvements that support tourism. By allowing municipalities to leverage anticipated tax revenues from new development, STAR bonds enable communities to undertake transformative projects that might otherwise be financially out of reach. This approach helps cities and towns create destinations that attract visitors, generate jobs, and produce ongoing tax revenue that benefits the broader community. Learn more at DCEO.Illinois.gov/star-bonds.
Open Enrollment
Open enrollment is now open! Whether you are enrolling for the first time or renewing your plan, Get Covered Illinois is available to help. Find local and free help by visiting GetCoveredIllinois.gov.
EV rebate program now open
Illinois is on the cutting edge of EV manufacturing, and you can get $4,000 back now through Jan. 31, 2026 when you purchase an all-electric vehicle of your own! Learn more and see if your purchase is eligible for a rebate here.
LIHEAP utility bill assistance
LIHEAP helps eligible households with low-income pay for home energy services. This includes assistance with heating gas, propane and electricity. More information on services available in your region can be found by visiting your Local Administering Agency (referred to as a local agency) page.
The last day to apply online with the Request for Services form is April 15, 2026. After this date you can still apply through your local administering agency through Aug. 15, 2026, or until funding is exhausted.
Go to Find my Local Agency to locate your LIHEAP Local Administering Agency.
Rental assistance available
The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program provides emergency rental assistance to tenants and housing providers/landlords across Illinois who have pending cases in eviction court.
Eligible applicants may qualify for up to $10,000 that can be applied to past due rent, up to $700 for court costs, and up to two months' future rent to prevent housing displacement.
Applicants can check their CBRAP application here. If you are at risk of eviction, please contact a legal aid organization or a HUD-approved housing counseling agency right away.
