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PALATINE — To help increase the number of professional nurses in Illinois, State Senator Ann Gillespie announced Harper College has been awarded $150,000 to strengthen its nursing program.
“Nursing programs like Harper College’s are vital as our state works to meet the needs of the health care industry,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This funding will help students overcome financial barriers and access the academic support they need on their journey to becoming our community’s future caregivers.”
The Illinois Board of Higher Education awarded nursing school grants to 12 higher education institutions across the state, including $150,000 to Harper College. The college plans to use the funds for tutoring, scholarships, faculty professional development opportunities and community-building efforts for current students.
Read more: Gillespie announces funding for Harper College’s nursing program
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ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — Three organizations serving the 27th District will receive new paratransit vehicles to extend safe, reliable and accessible transportation throughout the community, State Senator Ann Gillespie announced on Wednesday.
“These new vehicles will help expand the opportunities offered to seniors and individuals with disabilities,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “By investing in improved transportation, we are ensuring essential programs and services are in better reach for those who need it most.”
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.
Clearbrook and Xilin Association in Arlington Heights and the Northwest Special Recreation Association in Rolling Meadows are set to receive four vehicles, totaling $427,000. 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.
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SCHAUMBURG — In recognition of her work to improve health care access and quality for Illinois residents, the Illinois Primary Health Care Association named State Senator Ann Gillespie a 2023 Community Health Center Champion.
“Serving over a million Illinoisans annually, community health centers play a vital role in making quality health care accessible,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights), who chairs the Senate Appropriations – Health and Human Services Committee. “Working to ensure our health care system supports both patients and providers has been one of my priorities as a senator, and it’s an honor to be recognized by IPHCA for these efforts.”
Gillespie has introduced legislation to expand access to behavioral health services at federally qualified health centers. This spring, Gillespie passed legislation establishing a state-based health insurance marketplace, which will help uninsured Illinoisans acquire the coverage they need. She was also instrumental in the historic passage of Illinois’ first rate review legislation that protects consumers and small businesses from unfair health insurance premium rate increases.
Read more: Gillespie receives Community Health Center Champion award