CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is pleased to congratulate three area education institutions who received more than $200,000 total in literacy grants to help adult learners develop their reading, math, writing and English-language skills.

“Literacy is fundamental to learning and cannot be taken for granted,” Bennett said. “These programs present a wonderful opportunity for volunteer tutors to help others improve their lives through literacy and education.”

The following education institutions within the 52nd Illinois Senate District have been chosen to receive grants:

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CHAMPAIGN – To help people stay informed about their finances amid the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is highlighting free credit reporting websites.

“Like physical health, financial health is key to leading a stable and secure financial future,” Bennett said. “A consistent focus on a person’s budget and other financial matters will allow them to tackle financial burdens stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Federal law requires each of the three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—to provide a free credit report every 12 months if requested. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, these companies are offering free online weekly credit reports through April 2021.

The information in these reports may affect mortgage rates, credit card approvals, apartment requests and job applications. Reviewing credit reports can also help catch signs of identity theft early.

“People can take steps to improve their financial wellbeing by regularly checking their credit report,” Bennett said. “As we continue to navigate this challenging time, I encourage residents to take advantage of free credit services available to review their credit history and manage their finances.”  

To find out more about why credit is important or to request a credit report, visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com.

CHAMPAIGN – To commemorate the achievements and contributions of older adults, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is encouraging residents to nominate an older friend, family member or neighbor to the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame.

“Older adults deserve recognition for the impact they’ve made in our communities,” Bennett said. “Nominating an older adult for their contributions to better our community is a great way to spread encouragement and positivity.”

The Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame celebrates outstanding accomplishments in community service, education, the labor force and the arts. Each year, four candidates—one from each category—are inducted.

Eligibility is based on an individual’s past and present accomplishments, and the candidate must be a current Illinois citizen or a former citizen for most of their life. Posthumous nominees are also considered.

Since its creation in 1994, 121 people have been inducted into the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame.

“The members of the Illinois Senior Hall of Fame stand as examples to all of us,” Bennett said. “Nominate an older adult now and ensure they get the recognition they deserve.”

The Illinois Department on Aging has extended the submission deadline through Monday, Aug. 31. Nominations may be submitted online or by calling the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966.

CHAMPAIGN – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is awarding a planning grant to the Champaign County Systemic Safety Evaluation Tool project, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) announced Tuesday.

“I am thrilled we have secured these funds for Champaign County,” Bennett said. “This grant will enhance safety, improve livability and support economic development in our community.”

Champaign County will use the grant to develop an interactive map of the local road network to show assessed level of risk for safety incidents.

The grants are designed to advance the objectives of IDOT’s Illinois Long-Range Transportation Plan page. Among the criteria considered were plans that implement asset management strategies and performance-based planning and programming, as well as activities that grow and support economically distressed areas.

“Now more than ever, it is critical that we strengthen opportunities for economic growth and job creation,” Bennett said. “Securing vital infrastructure will allow our community to thrive and prosper.”

IDOT awarded 52 grants totaling more than $38 million to support the planning efforts of long-range transportation projects across the state.