CHICAGO – More than 200 businesses on the city’s Westside have received over $11 million dollars in Back to Business grants thanks to support from State Senator Patricia Van Pelt.

“Our small business owners give us so much, and I jump at every opportunity I have to support their businesses,” said Van Pelt (D-Chicago). “Times are hard, and entrepreneurs need as much support as they can get.”

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SPRINGFIELD – Up to $3.7 million in grants are available for communities outside of Cook County to address and implement COVID-19 health equity strategies, and State Senator Patricia Van Pelt, who chairs the Senate Healthcare Access and Availability committee, is encouraging state organizations to apply.

“COVID-19 has impacted communities across the state in very different ways,” said Van Pelt (D-Chicago). “Classism, racism, and other societal barriers didn’t leave with the pandemic. We must ensure that everyone is recovering from the pandemic equally.”

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CHICAGO – After a draft Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was leaked, State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“I am dumbfounded by the reports that the Supreme Court is expected to overturn Roe v. Wade. This ruling would not only take away women’s rights to their bodily autonomy, but it would also declare a war against working-class women.

“Abortions will continue to happen, they just will not be safe or legal in certain states. Thankfully, abortion rights are protected in Illinois, but the lives of many women will be put at risk elsewhere.

“Abortion is health care, and there are many reasons people need them. People have a right to choose, and I will defend that right as long as I serve the public.”

The application deadline has been extended to May 6

CHICAGO – The deadline to apply for the Phillip Jackson Freedom School Grant has been extended, and State Senator Patricia Van Pelt encouraging all who are eligible to apply.

“While students are getting a standardized education, many children could benefit from an extra system of support,” Van Pelt said. “Today’s Freedom Schools carry the essence of the movement that preceded them, and can offer a load of knowledge to those who take advantage of it.”

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