CHICAGO — Summer is a great time to play, rest – and read, says State Senator Mattie Hunter, who is hosting her free Summer Book Club for local students.

“Reading during the summer helps keep our children engaged, sparking their imagination and preventing learning loss while they’re out of school,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I encourage students to explore a local library and pick up a few books that interest them.”

To participate in Hunter’s Summer Book Club, students must read eight books of their choosing during the summer break, write the names of the books on a form and return the form to Hunter’s office by Aug. 16.

Book club forms are available to download at www.SenatorHunter.com/SBC, can be requested by calling Hunter’s district office at 312-949-1908 or can be picked up at Chicago Public Library branches within the 3rd District. Completed forms can be dropped off or mailed to Hunter’s office at 2929 S. Wabash Ave., Suite 102, Chicago, IL 60616, or faxed to 312-949-1958.

Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will be invited to an end-of-summer celebratory event where they can discuss their favorite books, as well as receive a certificate and prize.

Residents with questions about the program or who are having difficulty accessing books should call Hunter’s office at 312-949-1908.

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.

Applications are now open for the Carolyn Adams Ticket for the Cure community outreach grant. Grants will be given to organizations to conduct educational and outreach programs in their community focused on breast health. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Feb. 22. View grant information and apply online through the IDPH grants portal under Office of Women’s Health.

CHICAGO — To give back to the community during the holiday season, State Senator Mattie Hunter is partnering with Meridian Health and other local agencies to host a food giveaway and vaccination clinic on Thursday, Dec. 21 in Chicago.

“The holidays are a time to gather with family and friends,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I am grateful to partner with local organizations to provide a meal for those who may be struggling this time of year, as well as a convenient location receive vaccinations that will make your time together safer.”

Hunter will be giving away hams and turkeys at the XS Tennis and Education Foundation, 5336 S. State St. in Chicago, on Dec. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. while supplies last. Near North Health will be on site with a mobile vaccination unit offering flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. Flu vaccines can be charged to a resident’s insurance provider or offered at a small fee.

The event is sponsored by Senator Hunter, the Institute for Positive Living, Dion’s Chicago Dream, the XS Tennis and Education Foundation, Near North Health, Meridian, the Chicago Urban League, and Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc.

Residents with questions can call Hunter’s office at 312-949-1908.