- Published: Wednesday, April 06, 2022 11:42 AM
Para leer en español, haz click aqui.
Dear Neighbor,
The General Assembly is planning to adjourn the spring legislative session this Friday. The condensed session means it was jam-packed with important legislation to improve the lives of families across the state.
As we start to feel warmer weather, I want to make sure you have the resources you need to thrive – read on for job opportunities, upcoming community events and more. Check up on my website for legislative updates and stay tuned for my next newsletter for more information on what we championed this year.
As always, feel free reach out to my office for assistance by calling 773-278-2020, sending a text message to 773-207-7838, or sending us a note at www.senatorpacionezayas.com/contact-us.
Sincerely,
State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas | 20th District
Resources
Application open for 20th District Youth Advisory Council
I am deeply committed to shared governance and seek assistance from high schoolers age 15-18 to ensure young perspectives are included in policy making and that we are centering the voices and perspectives of individuals who live in the 20th district. Council members will participate in meetings on the following days from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: April 23, May 7, May 21, June 4, and June 11. Additionally, members will receive a $500 stipend at the end of the five sessions. Learn more and fill out an interest form here.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness changes could benefit you
If you work or have worked in public service, recent temporary changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) could be beneficial to you. Because these changes are temporary, it’s important that you do not delay in getting the information you need about whether you are eligible for this forgiveness program. Learn more and see if you qualify here.
Illinois Emergency Homeowner Assistance Fund applications open April 11
Households may be eligible for up to $30,000 to go toward delinquent mortgage payments or property taxes and other housing-related costs. The Illinois Housing Development Authority offers various webinars and FAQs to help you get the information you need to apply.
Housing Rights for Immigrant Tenants
The Latino Policy Forum recently released a guide about housing rights for immigrants. All people have a right to a safe and stable home, and this guide can help inform residents of their rights. Access the guide here.
Child Abuse Prevention Month
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and I started the month off wearing blue to bring attention to the importance of learning the signs and ways to prevent child abuse. The most important thing we can do to help children thrive is to support families before they reach a crisis. Learn more here.
ISBE funding opportunities
The Illinois State Board of Education offers various funding opportunities for school districts and institutions of higher education. Check out a full list of funding opportunities here.
Job opportunities
- Illinois Unidos – Multiple positions
- Illinois Action for Children – Policy Associate and Community Engagement Associate
- Chicago Public Schools – Multiple positions
Upcoming events
Saturday, April 9: Paper shredding and electronics recycling event
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Avondale-Logandale Elementary, 3212 W. George St.
Tuesday, April 12: Spring blood drive
Give blood and get a $10 e-gift card AND be eligelble for a $500 Airbnb credit sweepstakes! Come out 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., NEIU El Centro, 3390 North Avondale Ave. Register at https://bit.ly/40Blood
Saturday, April 16: Mortgage assistance application event
9 a.m. – 1 p.m., NEIU El Centro, 3390 North Avondale Ave.
Wednesday, April 20: Virtual town hall
6 p.m. – 7 p.m., Facebook Live - www.facebook.com/SenatorPacioneZayas
Friday, April 29: Spring open house
3 p.m. – 6 p.m., 20th District office, 3140 W. Montrose Ave.
