Blood Drive Oct.2

To help remedy Chicago's dire blood shortage caused by COVID-19, State Senator Mattie Hunter and Apostolic Church of God are partnering to hold a community blood drive this fall. African-American blood donors are particularly needed to help patients battling sickle cell disease. Blood banks have seen donations by African-Americans drop by more than 50% since the COVID-19 outbreak began.

If you are interested in being part of this community solution, please add your name here. Even one donation could save the life of one of our neighbors. If you have already signed up to donate blood, please call (877) 258-4825 or visit vitalant.org and use group code F932 to make an appointment as soon as you can.

Blood Drive Date: Friday, October 2 from 12-5pm in Apostolic Church of God Gym. Hope to see you there!

Hunter urges Southside businesses to apply for second wave of BIG grants TODAY

CHICAGO — During the first wave of Business Interruption Grants Chicago businesses received more than $3 million in financial assistance. The second wave of grants opened Thursday, and State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) is urging eligible businesses to apply.

“I was encouraged by the results of the first wave of BIG grants, and I’m hoping that other Southside businesses can receive similar assistance this time around,” Hunter said. “Any business that has faced financial hardships stemming from the pandemic should apply as soon as possible.”

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Hunter congratulates ICJIA grant recipients on Chicago’s Southside

CHICAGO — The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) announced more than $2 million in awards to Southside organizations that provide support to communities most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic Monday, and State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) is hopeful about the opportunities the new funding will provide.

“Facing the pandemic is hard enough no matter who you are,” Hunter said. “But when you are trying to re-enter society under these conditions, life can be unbearable. That is why I’m glad that these organizations exist to help ease the reentry process and provide those who were formally incarcerated with housing and other resources they need to stay afloat.”

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Hunter encourages job seekers to help the state fill high-demand positions in light of new labor grants

CHICAGO – In an effort to combat record high unemployment rates during the pandemic, the U.S. Department of Labor announced two new grants aiming to create nearly 1,300 jobs across the state. State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) is encouraging job seekers to apply.

“This pandemic has shown us that there is a need for a different kind of essential worker,” Hunter said. “Workers such as contract tracers and food pantry workers are needed now more than ever. Many people who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 should consider these positions, which not only gives them a source of income but helps to serve their community in a time of need.”

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