To view the flyer, please click here.

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) recently announced changes to the Illinois Cares Rx (ICRx) program that went into effect on September 1, 2011. Beneficiaries who are affected should have received a letter from HFS explaining the changes and whether or not they are still eligible to receive assistance through ICRx.

Members of the Chicago Restaurant Opportunities Center (ROC) visited my office to show their support and gratitude for supporting Senate Bill 1565 which would increase the minimum wage in Illinois from $8.25 by $.50 a year plus inflation until the minimum wage reaches its "historic level," the equivalent of $1.60 in 1968. The measure did not pass through the General Assembly this year but has strong support from many legislators who have vowed to continue to advocate on its behalf.

This year, I co-sponsored the 12th Annual Free Hair Cut & Style Day event, which took place at Cain’s Barber College, Chicago, on Labor Day, September 5, 2011, in conjunction with Chicago Area Project (CAP), Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd Ward), State Representative Ken Dunkin (D-5) and Greater Harvest M.B. Church. Barbers and stylists from Cain’s Barber College and other salons donated their services. The Labor Day Free Hair Cut & Style Day serviced more than 300 low-income kids, ages 5-17, who want to look their best on the first day of school. In addition, each participant received a free book-bag filled with school supplies.