Dear neighbor,
As we wrap up another year and head into the busy holiday season, it’s a great time to give back to our community and those in need. Keep reading for upcoming events, resources and more.
With temperatures dropping, be sure to check on family, friends and loved ones, and seek out a local warming center if needed.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at Illinois State Senator Bill Cunningham or (773) 445-8128 with any questions or concerns.
Best,
Bill Cunningham
State Senator | District 18
In the District
Veteran Resources Satellite Office Hours
Our office will be hosting staff from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Services offered will include assistance with health care, medical, disability, employment, and financial assistance. These office hours will be held semimonthly on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. The location is our satellite office at 3207 W. 111th St. Chicago, IL. I highly encourage anyone who needs VA assistance to attend.
College Financial Aid information Session
Our office is hosting a financial aid information session in partnership with the Illinois Student Assistance Commission. Join us the Chicago Ridge Public Library on Wednesday, Jan. 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Give us a call at (773) 445-8128 or email Joan for more information.
Illinois Secretary of State Mobile DMV
Folks in the 18th District who need their driver’s licenses renewed, new registration stickers or other DMV services can access a mobile DMV hosted at Palos heights Parks and Recreation.
Tour of Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling
I had an exciting opportunity to tour the Reyes Coca-Cola bottling facility in Alsip. I appreciated the chance to engage with workers and an employer who make our district great.
Resources
Winter road conditions
When snow and ice are in the forecast, watch for slick roads, drive cautiously and plan extra time for your commute. Before you head out, check Getting Around Illinois for the latest road conditions in your area.
Get Covered Illinois
Get Covered Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace offers over 300 quality, affordable health insurance plans. Individuals can enroll in a new plan or change a current plan for the upcoming year by visiting GetCovered.Illinois.gov by Jan. 15.
Utility bill assistance
Illinois’ winter weather rule is in effect until March 31, which protects residents from gas and electric utility disconnections on days at or below freezing temperatures. Those who need assistance with paying their utility bills are encouraged to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Learn more and apply online or call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages. Ameren, Nicor, North Shore and Peoples Gas natural gas customers who qualify for LIHEAP are eligible for a monthly discount on their gas bills through the state’s new low-income discount rates.
Online shopping safety
With the holiday shopping season underway, the Illinois Department of Revenue is reminding Illinoisans to be cautious of potential online threats. Beware of email and social media scams, protect your personal information, use strong passwords when creating accounts, and monitor your bank and credit card statements. View more tips here.
Coming soon: electric vehicle rebates
Illinois is on the cutting edge of EV manufacturing, and you can get $4,000 back starting Jan. 21 when you purchase an all-electric vehicle of your own! Learn more about the Illinois EPA’s next Electric Vehicle Rebate Program funding cycle here.
Apply for the Illinois Legislative Staff Intern Program
Do you know someone who is interested in a hands-on learning experience with the Illinois State Legislature? Applications for the Illinois Legislative Staff Intern Program (ILSIP) are open until March 1. Placements for this paid, full-time internship run Sept. 2 to June 30, 2025. Learn more and apply online.
