CHICAGO – The state budget for the next fiscal year will increase funding to senior services to help some of the most vulnerable Illinoisans cope during the COVID-19 crisis, State Senator Emil Jones, III (D-Chicago) announced Wednesday.

“This pandemic has affected senior citizens harder than any other age group,” Jones said. “They are at more risk of contracting the disease and family members have had to limit in-person visits to decrease risk of exposure. This budget provides additional funding to ensure seniors have the services they need and to try to make social isolation a litter easier for them.”

To offer much-needed assistance to struggling seniors during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the budget provides $201.7 million in additional funding to the Illinois Department on Aging. 

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones, III (D-Chicago) released the following statement after supporting a budget that addresses families that have suffered the most from COVID-19:

“One budget is not going to provide all the recovery we need, but this is a good start. Some families entered the Stay at Home order in already difficult economic positions that have only worsened as employees were let go from their jobs as a result of the pandemic.

“This budget addresses challenges with the unemployment system, helping ensure our laid off workers can get help. Additionally, we expanded resources at the Department of Children and Family Services to protect our most vulnerable children better than we have in the past.”

CHICAGO– State Senator Emil Jones, III (D-Chicago) announced SNAP recipients can purchase food from grocery stores who choose to participate in the EBT Online program.

“Not allowing SNAP recipients to order groceries online was a major barrier to preserving the health and well-being of Illinois families,” Jones said. “Low-income families need fairness and a safe way to feed their families just like any other household.”