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.”

Read more: Jones urges borrowers to contact their student loan providers

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.”

Read more: Jones announces expansion of COVID-19 testing in Black communities

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.

Read more: Jones supports SNAP recipients receiving additional benefits during COVID-19 pandemic