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

SPRINGFIELD – Following the election of a new Senate President, State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) offered the following statement:

“I would like to congratulate Senator Don Harmon for becoming President of the Senate. Over the years Harmon has showed strong leadership skills day in and day out. I look forward to working with him to bring unlimited resources back to my district,” Jones said.

Lawmakers will return to Springfield on Jan. 28 for the beginning of the spring legislative session.

CHICAGO – Five local school districts will receive more than $8,000 combined in grants through the Illinois secretary of state’s School Library Grant program, State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) announced Wednesday.

The grants, which are issued by the Illinois State Library, are meant to help public schools offer more library books and materials to students.

“These grants will provide many additional learning materials to the deserving school districts,” Jones said. “It’s sad to say, but libraries are often overlooked and underfunded so these funds will be beneficial to increasing our students reading skills.”

Schools receiving school library grants include:

• Atwood Heights School District 125, Alsip — $750
• Alsip, Hazelgreen & Oak Lawn School District 126 — $1,128.75
• Cook County School District 130, Blue Island — $2,396.25
• Forest Ridge School District 142, Oak Forest — $1,189.50
• Kirby School District 140, Tinley Park — $2,557.50