Loughran Cappel: Gutting our children's futures is despicable

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) released the following statement in response to the federal administration taking steps to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education:

“Dismantling the Department of Education hurts early childhood education, children with disabilities, under-resourced and rural schools and basic protections for civil rights. This federal administration's actions are extremely dangerous and its effects will be felt by all.

“States cannot adequately fund the federal mandates placed on public schools without the help of the federal government. This, once again, shows the blatant ineptitude of those in charge of the department. Gutting our children's futures is despicable.”

Loughran Cappel announces food drive for neighbors in need

CREST HILL —  State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is teaming up with State Representatives Natalie Manley and Dee Avelar to host a food and essential items drive to support local families in need.

“Between the federal lapse in food assistance and the rising cost of everyday essentials, we know people are looking for ways to support their neighbors who are struggling to put food on the table right now,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I encourage those who are eager to help to consider giving back as we approach the holiday season. Your generosity will be a lifeline for families who are stretched thin right now.”

Community members can drop off baby products, dry, nonperishable foods, hygiene products and other items to Loughran Cappel’s district office at 20660 Caton Farm Rd., Unit D, in Crest Hill or at any of the participating offices during regular business hours. The drive is open now and will continue indefinitely.

Items in need include rice, cereal and oatmeal, beans, canned goods, deodorant, paper towels, toilet paper, diapers and baby formula. For a full list of food and hygiene items needed, click here.

SNAP benefits have been halted as of Nov. 1, leaving children, seniors and working families without the resources they need to put food on the table. Loughran Cappel’s food drive will benefit these families, ensuring a lifeline is available to support them during this time.

For more information, people can call Loughran Cappel’s office at 815-267-6119.

Loughran Cappel calls for bipartisan action to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Everyday people rely on SNAP benefits which serve as a vital lifeline to keep food on the table," said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "It’s time to put politics aside. Families across Illinois will go hungry because of a political gridlock. Urgent action is needed."

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 22,375 people in the district Loughran Cappel represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Loughran Cappel stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

Loughran Cappel is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance.

Nearly $35 million coming to Will County infrastructure with strong support from Loughran Cappel

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel secured over $34 million to build and repair infrastructure in the 49^th Senate District.

“When we invest in our roads, we increase safety, bring more jobs and boost the local economy throughout our communities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Our commitment to invest in everyday infrastructure continues to better the lives of residents across the state. Drivers deserve safe, reliable roads and that’s what they will see with these strong investments.”

The largest multi-year program to build and repair infrastructure in state history will invest $50.6 billion over six years, continuing an unprecedented investment in safety, mobility and quality of life made possible by the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program. The Illinois Department of Transportation’s new multi-year program is both comprehensive and multimodal, with investments in roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations touching every Illinois county.

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