Glowiak Hilton law removes transportation barriers for sexual assault survivors

SPRINGFIELD – After experiencing a sexual assault, survivors often face the added stress of arranging a ride to a safe location once their medical exam is complete. To help ease this burden, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton championed a new law that expands the state’s sexual assault services voucher program to cover transportation following treatment.

“For someone who experienced trauma and found the strength to seek medical help, not having the means to get to their next location is overwhelming,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Expanding the state’s voucher program helps ensure survivors are cared for every step of the way, including after they leave the hospital.”

After an individual receives medical care for a sexual assault, hospitals issue a voucher that a patient can use for related health care expenses. The voucher is valid for 90 days from the date of their hospital visit and can be used to cover costs of ambulance rides, medical forensic or laboratory services, pharmacy expenses and follow-up health care treatment.

Under Glowiak Hilton’s new law, the list of eligible expenses covered by the voucher will include taxi or rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft, for a survivor to return home or to the transferring hospital, or to reach a shelter.

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Glowiak Hilton, Blair-Sherlock invite community to connect over coffee

VILLA PARK – State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton and State Representative Diane Blair-Sherlock are inviting local residents to talk over a cup of coffee in a casual setting at their Coffee and Conversation event Aug. 16.

“Sometimes it can feel intimidating to speak with your elected officials, but we host these events to make it easier and more relaxed,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “If you’re out running errands Saturday morning, I encourage you to stop by for coffee and share your thoughts with us.”

The Coffee and Conversation event will be held Saturday, Aug. 16 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Funky Java Coffee House, located at 40 S. Villa Ave. in Villa Park. Along with complimentary coffee, attendees will have the opportunity to talk with Senator Glowiak Hilton and Representative Blair-Sherlock about any concerns or feedback they have on local and state issues.

Residents with questions can contact Glowiak Hilton’s office at 630-785-3177.

Glowiak Hilton pleased to see local schools receive funds through evidence-based funding

OAKBROOK TERRACE — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton announced that eight school districts across the area will receive additional funding to help address the financial challenges of recent years.

“I am pleased to see that several local schools will be receiving additional financial assistance to ensure that students receive a high quality education that they are entitled to,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “When we invest in our students and teachers we are investing in the future and I am proud to be in a state that continuously prioritizes this critical funding.”

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Glowiak Hilton encourages organizations to apply for pre-apprenticeship program funding

OAKBROOK TERRACE — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is encouraging community organizations, schools and industry groups to apply for grants through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which helps open doors for individuals pursuing careers in the construction and building trades.

“Through pre-apprenticeship programs, students build a strong foundation for a successful career and develop lifelong skills,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This funding will help organizations expand interest in these high-demand fields and strengthen our state’s workforce in the long term.”

The latest round of funding includes $25 million to support pre-apprenticeship programs that aim to increase diversity and create pathways for underrepresented groups in the construction industry, including women, veterans and people of color. The program offers comprehensive, tuition-free training and certifications, along with supportive services to help individuals gain entry to apprenticeships and ultimately secure stable, well-paying careers.

Eligible applicants include nonprofits, chambers of commerce, community colleges, technical schools and school districts, among others. Grants will range from $150,000 to $550,000, with applications accepted until Aug. 31.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website.