Dear neighbor,

We’ve been busy in the 36^th District! With Halloween right around the corner, there are many upcoming events to look forward to for professionals, children and families in our community. Read on for event details, resources and more.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Visit NationalBreastCancer.org to learn more about your risk, prevention methods and to share the story of your own breast cancer experience. If you are uninsured, you may be eligible for free care through the Illinois Breast & Cervical Cancer Program.

My staff and I are always here to help — please reach out to us at (309) 558-3612 or online if you need assistance.

All the best,

Mike Halpin
State Senator | District 36

In the district

Trick-or-treat in the 36^th Senate District

Are you interested in partaking in trick-or-treating in your area this year? Check out trick-or-treat times across the 36^th Senate District here.

Over $300,000 to strengthen local literacy programs

Investing in literacy programs is one of the best ways we can ensure youth and families are set up for success. Through the Illinois Secretary of State’s adult and family literacy grant programs, the 36^th Senate District will receive a combined $300,000 to grow and enhance their services in our community. Read more.

Cooke School Park

I had the honor of joining community leaders to discuss the development of a park at Cooke School, which I secured $250,000 for. I was able to hear their shared vision and the positive impacts that a park will provide to youth and families within the community.

Illinois Association of School Boards legislative event

Alongside Representatives Gregg Johnson and Dan Swanson, I attended the Illinois Association of School Boards legislative event to discuss accessible and equitable public education and work that was done during this spring’s legislative session!

Resources and grant opportunities

October is Women’s Small Business Month!

This Women’s Business Month, Illinois is proud to celebrate the rich contributions and accomplishments of women, women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. To show support for the women who keep our economy moving, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is hosting a variety of helpful webinars and events and highlighting resources geared toward women-owned businesses. Check them out on the DCEO website.

Stand up to bullying this October

A safe and supportive environment helps every child thrive. During Bullying Prevention Month this October, talk to your kids about bullying. Encourage them to model kindness and respect, and to seek help if they see or experience bullying. Visit StopBullying.gov to learn about federal laws, cyberbullying prevention, and the role of parents, teachers and staff in building a safe school environment.

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

During the month of October, Illinois families most in need can apply first 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. All other income-eligible households can apply starting Nov. 1. Learn more and apply at HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.

The Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus is hiring

Are you interested in working in Illinois government in a fast-paced, inclusive work environment? The Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus is looking to hire communications professionals in their Springfield office. View the job posting here.

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.

Apply for funding from the Illinois Arts Council

The Illinois Arts Council is accepting applications for the Creative Accelerator Fund. The CAF will provide flexible $10,000 awards to 130 artists across the state with the goal of strengthening the creative workforce and investing in artists’ professional growth. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Nov. 20. Artists can review eligibility and find more details on the IAC website.