- Published: Friday, October 22, 2021 02:32 PM
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Dear friend,
I hope this autumn has been treating you well so far! Below, you will find some resources for you, including assistance with housing, support for filling out the FAFSA, grant opportunities and more.
Additionally, check out what I’ve been up to around the district this month as well as some upcoming events.
As always, I encourage everyone to continue to wear a mask, and if you can, get vaccinated. Stay healthy and safe as we continue to work to recover from this pandemic!
Sincerely,
Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas | 20th District
Resources
Take our survey on Emergency Rental Assistance
We want to hear from you! As we gear up for another round of emergency rental assistance, please take my office’s survey to let us know how we can help you. The survey is open to organizations or individuals here.
Rental assistance still available through IDHS
Contact a provider in Chicago to see if you’re eligible for rental assistance. The directory of organizations available to help you fill out an application is available on the IDHS website.
Know Your Rights: Eviction and Lockout Resources
The eviction moratorium ended on Oct. 3, so be aware of the rights you have as a tenant. Check out the flyer below and visit the City of Chicago's website for more information on rental assistance, legal help and more.
Household assistance available for low-income families
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is providing $327 million to support Illinois’ most vulnerable residents with rent, utilities, food and other household expenses, regardless of immigration status. Eligible households are encouraged to apply for the Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program and Community Services Block Grant program. More information on the relief programs is available on the DCEO website and applications can be found on helpillinoisfamilies.com.
ICJIA offers grants from violence prevention initiatives
The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority announced a $3.8 million funding opportunity to support community violence prevention initiatives, prevention services for children and families at risk for harm, and long-term, trauma-informed services. Grants will align with the 2020-2024 State Violence Prevention Plan, with goals of stopping violence and promoting safety; supporting children, youth, and families; advancing equity in communities; and building healthy communities. Check out the Notice of Funding Opportunity.
October is Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month
Unsafe sleep is a leading cause of death for children one year old and younger, and during Infant Safe Sleep Awareness month, Illinois DCFS is mailing English and Spanish posters to 8,000 day care providers across the state and asking for them to be displayed in a high-traffic area to remind parents and caregivers of three simple steps they can take to create a safe sleep environment for infants in their care. Read more about it here.
En español
2022-23 FAFSA Application is now open!
Specific details, including links to several online resources, may be accessed via the Financial Aid Planning section (which is located within the Students & Parents – Before College area). FAFSA results are used to determine eligibility for the Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant, as well as several other forms of federal, state and institutional financial assistance.
In addition, the 2022-23 Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid is also available (in English and Spanish). This application is available for students without citizenship who meet certain criteria. More information on the alternative application can be found here.
Jobs of the Week
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is hiring two bilingual Public Affairs Specialists. Learn more and apply here:
https://www.jobapscloud.com/MWRD/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1=21&R2=20001334&R3=002">Public Affairs Specialist (bilingual) - Original Entrance Open to All
https://www.jobapscloud.com/MWRD/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1=21&R2=20001334&R3=001">Public Affairs Specialist (bilingual) - District Employees promotional
Regional Commissioner, Public Buildings Service with the General Services Administration is hiring:
Erie Family Health is hiring for multiple positions, including medical assistants. Learn more and apply here:
Careers – Erie Family Health Centers
In the District
I am excited to announce my appointment to the Advisory Committee on State Cultural Districts and the Advisory Committee on the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity. Stay tuned for details!
Check out some pictures of what I’ve been up to in the community, and visit my website for more!
Modern technology has come a long way, and programs like this are revolutionary for identifying early signs of cancer. I attended the launch of Community First Medical Center’s Hereditary Cancer Screening Program. Read more about it here.
I also toured two Envision Unlimited facilities in the district. The visit allowed me to see first-hand the importance of providing support for people with disabilities through community-based programs. Read more about the visit here.
Last week I gathered with the governor and other state leaders to celebrate a new law, SB 1833, which allows the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to designate cultural districts throughout the state. Read more about the law and the celebration here.
Upcoming Events
Commmunity Blood Drive on Nov. 10 from 2-7 p.m. at Northeastern Illinois University El Centro
Schedule an appointment here: https://donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/5597364
The Illinois Power Agency is holding weekly “Power Hour” seminars covering wide range of clean energy topics and issues presented over the lunch hour. Learn more on the IPA website.
