CHICAGO – Good Shepherd Manor in Momence has received funding to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options, thanks to strong support from State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr.

“When we invest in our transportation services, we are investing in our communities and the people who live there,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Good Shepherd Manor will now be even better equipped to help its residents.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Good Shepherd Manor is set to receive two vehicles to help them serve the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program. The program helps smaller transit agencies navigate the red tape of the public bidding process while ensuring their vehicles meet federal requirements and specifications.

A full list of awardees can be found here.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is leading efforts to ensure youth who commit non-violent crimes are given a second chance.

“Providing youth with the opportunity to develop positive behaviors should be the foundation of our efforts to prevent further crime and violence,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Too often, young people veer off the path toward healthy adult lives because they aren’t provided the resources they need to stay on track.”

Under Sims’ measure, people under the age of 18 who committed a non-violent crime would be provided a number of resources, including employment opportunities, educational resources, parental mentorship training and more.

Additionally, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority would develop a mentorship initiative to provide the young people with counseling by a trained trauma therapist, as well as assistance with applying for SNAP and other public aid.

“Ensuring youth have the ability to succeed and move forward supports the development of their assets and resilience, leading them to better, healthier lives,” said Sims. “The support provided under Senate Bill 2535 will not only save young lives, but also prevent the onset of adult criminal careers.”

Senate Bill 2535 passed the Senate Special Committee on Criminal Law and Public Safety.

CHICAGO – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. received the Illinois Outstanding Legislator of the Year award from the Illinois Parks Association.

“Parks are at the heart of our communities, where families and neighbors gather to grow, prosper, and make priceless memories,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Bringing forth the concerns of our constituents and crafting policies that will make a meaningful impact to everyday problems faced by residents is our top priority as a legislative body."

The Illinois Association of Park Districts recognizes legislators for their exceptional support of legislation promoting park districts, forest preserves, recreation and conservation agencies across Illinois. Sims has been a longtime advocate for Illinois parks and is proud to continue to support park districts across Illinois through initiatives like the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant program.

“Parks throughout the 17^th District and the state of Illinois are beloved by their communities, and I am always looking for ways to continue to improve them and the experiences our neighbors have while visiting them, while bringing residents the more accessible open spaces they want,” said Sims. “Maintaining our parks is a commitment to our communities and I will proudly continue to work with the IAPD to bring life to our parks and benefit residents across the state.”

For more information or to learn more about the Illinois Association of Park Districts, visit their website.

CHICAGO – With support from State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr., Chicago State University will receive $200,000 to address student homelessness and help provide necessities many students lack.

“When students lack basic necessities – like food or housing – they lack the stability to allow them to reach their full potential,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Chicago State University will now have the resources to uplift its most vulnerable students, putting them on the path to success.”

The End Student Housing Insecurity grants were awarded by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and will be used to support ongoing efforts to address systemic causes of student homelessness and basic-needs insecurity. Chicago State University is one of 10 institutions chosen by the IBHE.

The grants were awarded by a competitive application process, based on the school’s ability to address primary causes of homelessness and basic-needs insecurity, and to help students overcome barriers to graduation. The $200,000 investment to Chicago State University is just one step in the state’s higher education plan to close equity gaps for students.

“Students should not have to worry about food or housing insecurity during an already stressful season of their life,” said Sims. “The grants will allow students to focus on their education rather than on how they’re going to put food on the table.”

For more information on the End Student Housing Insecurity grants, click here.