CHICAGO – Hundreds of South Side Chicago businesses have been awarded more than $5 million in funding from the Back to Business Program to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to efforts from State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago).

“I am pleased so many businesses are receiving a boost to help them flourish through the ongoing pandemic,” Hunter said. “Over 100 businesses in the 3rd District have been awarded Back to Business grants, including coffee shops like Sip and Savor, which brings the community together one beverage at a time.”

CHICAGO – Libraries across the 3rd District have been awarded nearly $75,000 in grants to support COVID-19 recovery thanks to efforts from State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago).

“Libraries are an essential part of every community, and they have struggled through the course of this pandemic,” Hunter said. “Libraries provide access to vital resources such as internet access and a productive work space for anyone who needs it, and that’s why it is important for them to be funded sufficiently.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) announced today that several pre-apprenticeship programs in the 3rd District have received a combined $2.7 million in investments.

The investment will support pre-apprenticeship programs, reduce barriers to entry and increase diversity in the construction trades for underrepresented populations.

“I am glad that these pre-apprenticeship programs are getting much needed investments in order to supplement their developmental needs and foster real diversity and inclusion,” Hunter said. “These investments not only support our local organizations and workers, but our economy as well.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the death of DCFS specialist Diedre Silas:

“I am absolutely devastated by the loss of Diedre, an incredible person dedicated to protecting our children. She was a remarkable person and worker and she will surely be missed. Though her death was tragic, I will always remember her for the bright soul that she was. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones, and I pray they receive justice for her untimely passing.

“Sadly, this isn’t the first DCFS child protection worker who was attacked and murdered on the job. That’s why I will be introducing legislation that will protect employees from these kind of dangers.”