CHICAGO — In an effort to help people struggling to pay their student loans during the unprecedented economic challenges facing the state and country, State Senator Emil Jones, III highlighted relief options that could benefit nearly 140,000 Illinoisans. 

“Paying student loan debt is not an essential matter when borrowers are experiencing pay cuts,” Jones (D-Chicago) said. “This is an obstacle borrowers do not need during this tough time. I recommend they contact their loan provider and see if their payments can be waved through the duration of this crisis.”

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CHICAGO – To address the health disparities in minority neighborhoods, State Senator Emil Jones, III (D-Chicago) announced more COVID-19 testing sites on the Southside and Westside of Chicago. 

“Since the start of this pandemic, Roseland — an already underfunded hospital — has been the only health care facility providing walk up and drive in testing for COVID-19 on the Southside of Chicago,” Jones said. “This has really shown the lack of testing in the predominantly black neighborhoods. I appreciate Gov. Pritzker taking steps to address this issue and providing vital resources to our district.”

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CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones, III announced Tuesday that eligible SNAP recipients will receive additional benefits beginning this week. 

“All families, especially ones with low-incomes, need support more than ever,” Jones (D-Chicago) said. “Many people were laid off their jobs, so it’s essential for them to know that they have more funds to still feed their families during this pandemic.”

More than 450,000 Illinois residents will receive additional Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The increased amount will automatically load onto their link cards. Link card holders do not need to call or visit an office. All new applications authorized in April will also receive the maximum allotment for their household size.

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones, III (D-Chicago) announced Monday the expansion of support to childcare workers and other essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Essential workers do not have the luxury of staying home during this crisis,” Jones said. “Doctors and nurses are working day in and day out so it’s important these childcare centers are sustained to support these essential employees."

All essential workers in health care, human services, essential government services, and essential infrastructure now qualify for the state’s Child Care Assistance. Most of the expenses of emergency childcare centers and homes will be covered. This expansion of eligibility includes those working as nurses and doctors, supporting staff in hospitals, grocery store clerks and food producers.

Emergency childcare centers will receive additional reimbursement rates above their usual pay rate. Childcare centers interested in re-opening as emergency child centers are able to apply for a permit through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. To apply visit: www2.illinois.gov/sites/OECD.

Home childcare providers do not need a permit and can serve up to six children.

For more information on assistance available at the Department of Human Services visit: DHS.illinois.gov/helpishere and coronavirus.illinois.gov