Hunter applauds $1.9 million investment in local pre-apprenticeship programs

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter announced that five organizations in the 3rd District have received over $1.9 million in funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

“Pre-apprenticeship programs open the door to well-paying careers for people of all backgrounds,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This investment not only helps Illinois build a better and more diverse workforce but strengthens our communities by empowering individuals to learn a trade.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded over $18 million in grants to 36 recipients through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The following organizations in Hunter’s district received funding:

• Children First Fund, $250,000
• EDDR Foundation, $550,000
• Lumity, $330,000
• Metropolitan Family Services, $550,000
• Project H.O.O.D., $250,000

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Hunter highlights Bronzeville’s designation as a cultural district

CHICAGO — With a rich history as a hub for Black art, culture and business, Bronzeville has been recognized as a State-Designated Cultural District, announced State Senator Mattie Hunter. This designation unlocks access to funding to preserve the area’s legacy and support continued growth.

“Growing up in Bronzeville, I saw firsthand the lasting impact of the area’s vibrant history. Despite hardships, the neighborhood flourished and nurtured many influential Black figures we still know today,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This designation will help preserve Bronzeville’s legacy as a haven for Black excellence for generations to come.”

State-Designated Cultural Districts are communities, towns or specific geographic areas with a distinct shared historical and cultural identity that binds the community together. The program is designed to encourage economic development, support the preservation and development of historically and culturally significant structures, traditions and languages, foster local cultural development and education, celebrate communities’ unique cultural identities, and promote equitable growth and opportunity without generating displacement.

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Hunter empowers families with health and wellness event

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter, in partnership with State Representatives Kim Neely du Buclet and Sonya M. Harper and Aetna Better Health, is bringing health and wellness resources to the community through a free family event on March 9.

“Community-driven initiatives are crucial in tackling health disparities,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By bringing free health screenings, workshops and resources into our neighborhoods, we’re empowering residents to make informed choices and take charge of their health.”

The Health is Wealth and Wellness event will be held Saturday, March 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dawson Technical Institute, 3901 S. State St., Chicago. Attendees can take advantage of health screenings, interactive workshops including cooking and fitness demonstrations, and information sessions on financial literacy, mental health, cancer care, education and more.

For more information, visit the event’s EventBrite page or contact Hunter’s office at 312-949-1908.

Hunter encouraged by proposed investments in housing, human services

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to the governor’s budget address Wednesday:

“Supporting our unhoused neighbors is one of my top priorities. It is vital that we continue to invest in assisting unhoused individuals through expanded access to affordable housing and rental assistance programs, along with building wraparound services to help lift families out of poverty. While asylum seekers who have arrived in Chicago need help, so do our longtime residents, and I will continue to work with my colleagues to prioritize the needs of our communities.

“It is encouraging to see that the governor remains committed to funding health and human services initiatives laid out in the fourth pillar of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’ agenda, including addressing the state’s maternal mortality rate and supporting working families through the Child Care Assistance Program. The work continues as we address health disparities among Black Illinoisans and build a more equitable health care system.

“In the coming months, I look forward to negotiating a responsible budget that ensures the well-being of our state’s underserved populations.”