CHICAGO – State Senator Robert Peters announced a new area on the south side of Chicago is now a State-Designated Cultural District.

“State-Designated Cultural Districts encourage neighborhood development and education while celebrating the unique cultural identities within our communities,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This new cultural district in south Chicago will bring more ethnically inspired opportunities to our neighborhoods.”

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters announced HIRE360 and YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago have received over $1 million in pre-apprenticeship program investments through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

“These programs create opportunities for people in this community to build careers for themselves and their families,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Continued investments into programs such as the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program are essential.”

SPRINGFIELD – Following Governor JB Pritzker’s annual budget and state of the state address, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“I am pleased to see Governor Pritzker has shown great tenacity towards addressing the public safety concerns of our underserved communities through increased investments in violent prevention programs and strengthening families through better healthcare initiatives. In order to bring structure and stability to Illinois we must propose an overall inclusive and rational budget that address health care disparities and unfair insurance industry practices – which often target low to median income families and already under-funded communities.

“I agree with the governor that investments in public safety and our economic development should be top priorities to keep our communities safe and continue economic equity expansion across Illinois. We must be committed to funding programs that bring more financial security, safety and justice to our communities.

“The governor’s budget proposes transformative investments to fight poverty and prevent homelessness with $200 million funds allocated to the Restore, Reinvest, Renew program and $30 million to Reimagine Public Safety. Further, it offers opportunities for communities impacted by a broken criminal justice system through data driven intervention programs, street outreach and re-entry programs.

“In the next few months, I look forward to working with the governor and my fellow lawmakers to negotiate a budget that increases Illinois’ stability and provides much-needed services to the people who rely on them the most.”

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters is spreading Valentine’s Day compassion by encouraging residents to send cards to seniors in the community.

“If you are able, please consider donating or making a handmade card,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “People of all ages are encouraged to participate. It only takes a few minutes to help brighten a senior’s day.”

Cards can be delivered in person via the mail slot at Peters’ Chicago office or mailed to 1304 E. 47th St., Suite 205, Chicago, IL 60653. Valentine’s Day cards will be collected through Monday, Feb. 12 at 4 p.m. Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to senior housing facilities in the city.

For questions, people can contact Peters’ office at 773-363-1996.