NAPERVILLE – The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the health inequities facing communities throughout Illinois. The Health Equity Response Team of the DuPage County Health Department has been awarded funding to implement health equity strategies, State Senators Laura Ellman and Suzy Glowiak Hilton announced.  

“The COVID-19 pandemic increased health disparities and inequalities in our most vulnerable communities,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “It is important that community organizations such as the Health Equity and Response Team within DuPage County Public Health are empowered to help close the gap.”

Making up 14% of the DuPage County population the positive case rate for Latinx DuPage County residents was five times higher than non-Latinx residents. For Black DuPage County residents, the positive case rate was nearly two-and-a-half times higher than the positive case rate for white residents despite Black residents being 4.8% of the county population. Established in October 2020, HEART works with community agencies to reduce the disproportionate effects of COVID-19. HEART is one of the 18 organizations across Illinois awarded funding to address systemic health disparities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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OAKBROOK TERRACE – As college application season kicks off, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is encouraging students and their families to explore the state and federal relief opportunities related to financial aid, student loans and college affordability.

“Resources are available to make higher education more affordable to families,” said Senator Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “I’m hopeful this relief can offer support to students needing assistance.”

Under the federal plan for one-time student loan forgiveness announced earlier this year, students who received Federal Pell Grants can have up to $20,000 in debt forgiven and students with non-Pell Grant loans can have up to $10,000 in debt forgiven if their individual income is less than $125,000. The application is available at studentaid.gov and must be completed by Dec. 31, 2023.

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OAKBROOK TERRACE – National Mammography Day is recognized during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is reminding women to schedule this potentially life-saving exam.

“Mammograms save lives, as early detection for breast cancer is vital to patient care,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “National Mammography Day and Breast Cancer Awareness Month serve women as a reminder to schedule their yearly exams.”

Breast cancer affects more than 250,000 women and 2,400 men in the United States every year. But unfortunately, the National Cancer Institute reported an estimated 9.4 million screenings that normally would have taken place in 2020 did not occur due to the pandemic.

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OAKBROOK TERRACE – State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is encouraging high-school aged girls to apply to the 2022 Illinois Council on Women and Girls. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the legislative process firsthand.

“Young women today are growing up in a different world. It’s important for legislators to listen to the voices and concerns of these girls as we make our way forward in these new times,” said Sen. Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This is a wonderful opportunity for high-schoolers who have a passion for civic engagement and want their voices to be heard.”

This opportunity seeks to let young women share their voices and experiences to help make Illinois a place where all girls can thrive. Participants will have the opportunity to provide policy recommendations on legislation that impacts the lives of women and girls in Illinois, critical topics such as health care, academic and economic opportunities, and gender-based violence.

Committee meetings will begin December 2022 and include bi-weekly meetings and one-hour quarterly meetings with other council committees. The bi-weekly meetings are typically held after school hours and there participants will plan events and projects. Those selected will serve a one-year term during which they will not only learn about the legislative process, but have a hand in it as well.

Applications are due no later than Oct. 23 and are open for girls grades 9 through 12. For more information and to apply, visit the Illinois State Board of Education’s application portal.

“Being a part of this committee gives girls the chance to help make their communities a better place,” Glowiak Hilton said. “I am thankful to the Illinois Council on Women and Girls for providing this opportunity to young women, and I encourage them to apply.”

Senator Glowiak Hilton’s office is available to answer questions, to contact please call (630) 785-3177 or visit her website.