March 16, 2024

I have some huge and exciting news: Almost $13 million in federal funding I secured is coming home to our community to support 14 incredible projects. 

John, it’s no secret how much I love the 14th District. I tell anyone who will listen that nowhere else in the country will you find people who are more passionate about lifting each other up, or who care more deeply about their neighbors. 

I think that spirit and pride is reflected in every one of these projects, and I’m so proud I was able to bring these federal dollars home to support the towns, organizations, and people who are doing such important work. 

You don’t have to take my word for it, just take a look at some of the projects below: 

$1,413,500 for two local food pantries. There is a food security crisis happening right now, and food banks and local pantries are a critical lifeline for so many families who are struggling. These funds will make it possible for two pantries, one in Aurora and one in Kendall County, to make badly needed upgrades to their facilities so they can serve more families and better support our neighbors. 

$477,000 to support survivors of domestic violence. Guardian Angel Community Services is an organization that’s shows up for people in some of their darkest hours. I secured almost half a million dollars to help them maintain their 24-hour hotline for survivors of sexual assault, and support their counseling, medical and legal advocacy, case management, and education services. 

$1,000,000 for a new fire and ambulance station in Ottawa. Hospital closures in Peru and Spring Valley have led to a dangerous increase in response times for first responders in the area. This new fire and ambulance station will help them arrive on the scene sooner and more safely so they can help. 

$826,776 to put a brand-new electric bus on I-55. Climate change is a public health crisis that’s threatening our communities, and every step counts in our fight against it. With these funds, PACE will be able to put a brand-new, state of the art electric bus on I-55 to bypass traffic and get commuters from the suburbs to the city in an eco-friendly way. 

That’s just a small sample, John! To learn more about all 14 projects and the impact they’ll have, visit my website here.  

It’s moments like these that remind me why representing the 14th District is the honor of my life. I’m so proud of our community, and so thrilled that my fight to secure these funds was successful. 

I hope you and your family are having a great start to Spring! 

More soon,