CHICAGO– State Senate Bill Cunningham announced two social service providers in Alsip and Oak Lawn are set to receive a combined total of $432,000 to offer reliable and accessible transportation options for people living with disabilities.

“People with disabilities are valuable members of our community, and we need to look out for opportunities to increase accessibility in transportation wherever possible,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This is vital funding because it ensures residents have access to reliable transportation for things like medical appointments, the grocery store and service programs.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles are delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Park Lawn School and Activity Center in Oak Lawn was awarded $240,000 for two vehicles. The nonprofit organization provides services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including community day services and supportive employment.

“Park Lawn's deep commitment to providing community access and integration for our participants with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities who also have mobility limitations requires reliable and accessible vehicles,” said Park Lawn Executive Director Frank Portada. “Senator Cunningham's support of our request paves the way for countless community opportunities for our participants.  Whether it is getting safely back and forth from the Community Day Program locations, a community job, or visiting a public library, zoo, or community restaurant, safe and accessible transportation is essential to our participants engaging actively within the community. We are grateful to Senator Cunningham for his abiding dedication to our participants and their families.”

Sertoma Centre Inc., located in Alsip, was awarded $192,000 to purchase two vehicles. Learn more about their residential case management and housing programs here.

A full list of awardees can be found here.