ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — Literacy programs within the 27th District will receive $235,000 in combined state grants, thanks to support from State Senator Ann Gillespie.

“Literacy programs equip individuals of all ages with the essential skills they need to succeed,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This funding will help support these valuable programs as they continue to provide local residents with access to high-quality learning opportunities.”

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office awarded $150,000 to Township High School District 214 for adult volunteer and family literacy programs, and $85,000 to The Center for literacy programs. Grants will support programs that assist learners in enhancing their reading, writing, math and English-language skills.

More information about statewide library grants can be found on the Secretary of State’s website.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — State Senator Ann Gillespie has been chosen to join the 2023-24 cohort of the Milbank Fellows Program, a 10-month leadership program focused on public policy to improve health outcomes. This year’s class includes 24 legislative and executive branch leaders from around the country whose work demonstrates a commitment to bringing health equity to their communities.

“I am honored to join leaders from across the country who are also committed to improving health care outcomes within our communities,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “As a state senator with a background in health care, I have made it a priority to advance legislation addressing health care issues, including access and affordability. I look forward to using the knowledge and skills I gain from this program to make a difference in the lives of the people I represent.”

The Milbank Fellows Program works to improve population health and health equity by collaborating with leaders and decision makers. Under the fellowship program, leaders will gain new knowledge and evidence-based approaches to improving population health. It also offers opportunities to develop leadership capacities and network with colleagues throughout the U.S.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — To help small businesses continue to recover from losses sustained in the pandemic, State Senator Ann Gillespie announced that 14 local restaurants have received grants through the Back to Business program.

“Many small businesses are still recovering from the financial impact of the last few years,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “The Back to Business program has provided a vital investment in the hardest-hit industries in our state, including restaurants, allowing them to continue providing services our communities enjoy and rely on.”

The Back to Business grant program provides recovery grants for small businesses throughout the state, with an emphasis on businesses in the hardest-hit industries. Fourteen restaurants in Gillespie’s district will receive a total of $610,000.

SPRINGFIELD – More individuals needing prosthetic or orthotic devices will soon have them covered by insurance under a measure sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie that was signed into law Aug. 7.

"With this legislation, we are ensuring that those who use prosthetic or orthotic devices can acquire the most appropriate models to enhance their overall health," said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). "Expanding what is covered by insurance will allow more individuals to get the devices they need to regain mobility and participate in the activities they enjoy.”

The legislation amends the Illinois Insurance Code to provide that any enrollee, regardless of age, will be covered for the most appropriate model determined by a medical provider in order to maximize the recipient’s overall health and strengthen their limb function.