General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons
Dear Neighbor,
I hope you are well. It has been a challenging week for many in the community, and I want to reassure anyone who is struggling, that you are not alone. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office or to a trusted community resource. Just below this letter is a list of resources.
I am heartened to reflect back on the events and updates below as they are an example of what is to come for the future. My office and I will remain focused on making sure that everyone in Illinois - whether your family has lived here for generations or just arrived for the first time - has access to the most basic of human dignities; food, housing, healthcare, childcare, wellness, and safety.
As I ender my next term as your state senator, I want to express that it is the honor of my life to serve you and the community that I grew up in. Your needs and lived experiences directly inform legislation, outreach, and advocacy from my office. As always, should you need to reach us please do not hesitate to call our office at 773-769-1717 or email
Sincerely,
Senator Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Senator Simmons Event Recap
DHS Mobile Office Hours
Caption: Senator Simmons and Cheif of Staff, Heather Saenger, assist folks at the DHS Mobile Office Hours event.
Caption: Gabby and Katelin (front) and Connor (back) assist constituents at DHS Mobile Office Hours on October 24 at The Institute for Cultural Affairs building.
On October 24, my staff and I held DHS Mobile Office Hours at The Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA) building in Uptown. We had nearly 70 folks walk-in, with questions and needs ranging from housing, SNAP, ride-free transit, small business support, and LIHEAP. It was great to have the Department of Human Services there with us, taking in cases and providing solutions and answers in real-time. I am so proud of my team for compassionately and expertly helping each and every person who came through the door. We look forward to continuing to bring events like this to the community, and extend many thanks to Lesley Showers, Executive Director of the ICA for graciously providing space and accommodations for our event.
Senator Simmons Updates
Senator Simmons Attends White House Convening on Child Care
Caption: Senator Simmons along with fellow legislators from the entire country, attend the White House Convening on Child Care.
It was an honor to return to the White House for the Convening on Child Care again this year! I was especially proud to share that since the last convening, I and my Illinois General Assembly colleagues have passed the first permanent child tax credit in Illinois! This legislation was directly informed by 7th District constituents, like my Single Moms People’s Legislative Council, neighbors at block parties, and folks who reached out to my office seeking help. I brought your voices with me to the White House, and I will continue to fight for what families need, like quality, affordable childcare and a thriving wage for our child care workers!
Senator Simmons Receives Thresholds Hero Award
Caption: Senator Simmons with Thresholds CEO Mark Ishaug, as he receives the “Thresholds Hero Award.”
It was an honor to receive the Thresholds Hero Award for my legislative work in mental health - an award that is not just a reflection of me alone, but of so many dedicated people who advocate for better mental health resources in Illinois. I was so proud to have my partner, Michael, and staffers, Gabby and Dave, with me at the event.
Thank you to Thresholds CEO Mark Ishaug, Senior Vice President Heather O’Donnell, State Rep. Maurice West, and Dave Albert of IDHS for specific recognition of my bill, Senate Bill 3297, which lowers the age of eligibility for the Housing is Recovery pilot program from 21 years old to 18 years old. This bill was signed into law on August 9, 2024 and will expand housing opportunities for youth experiencing homelessness and help them avoid the cycles of poverty and prison. By lowering the eligibility age to 18, access to affordable housing is expanded, and young people receive necessary support and resources needed to navigate this transitional phase effectively during a pivotal moment in their lives.
Senator Simmons Receives LGBTQ+ Leader Award from Treasurer Frerichs
Caption: Senator Simmons was recognized by Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs with the Illinois LGBTQ+ Leader Award during a celebration commemorating LGBTQ+ History Month in Chicago.
October was LGBTQ+ History Month, and it was an honor to receive the LGBTQ+ Leader Award from State Treasurer Michael Frerichs, along with a wonderful group of leaders in the military, medicine, education, advocacy and activism, government, athletics, and fine arts. As the first openly LGBTQ+ senator in the state of Illinois and the third Black and openly gay senator in the country, I bring my lived experiences as well as my constituents' with me every day. Since taking office three years ago, I have fought to protect LGBTQ+ rights in Illinois through empowering organizations and taking legislative action to advance the rights of LGBTQ+ folks across the state. It is a profound privilege to serve in elected office as the state senator to the 7th District, and I will continue my commitment toward enshrining the rights of all LGBTQ+ folks into law.
Senator Simmons Attends U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing on Prescription Drug Prices, Led by Senator Durbin
Caption: Senator Simmons with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin at the Federal Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing on Prescription Drugs on October 29.
On October 29th, I attended a Federal Senate Judiciary Committee Field Hearing on prescription drug prices led by Committee Chair, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin. Congresspeople, doctors, pharmacists, and patients shared the damaging impact that the high cost of prescription drugs has on everyday people. In August, the Federal Inflation Reduction Act was passed - which means that folks on Medicare will soon see their drug costs go down on ten of the most common and expensive prescription drugs that treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, blood clots, and more. As big pharmaceutical companies continue to spend more on marketing than research and development, we must continue to ask why, demand transparency, and implement further reforms so no one has to choose between paying for medicine and prescriptions over putting food on the table.
Senator Simmons and Staff Attend Preliminary Landmark Hearing for 1224-1234 W. Loyola Building
Caption: Senator Simmons, staff, Kristin and Nathan from Roman Susan Art Gallery, Ward Miller from Preservation Chicago, and additional supporters came out to the Commission on Chicago Landmarks hearing.
Last month, I joined Kristin Abhalter Smith from Roman Susan Art Gallery in asking the City of Chicago’s Commission on Chicago Landmarks to consider the building at 1224 - 1234 W. Loyola Ave for landmark status. Home to 35 apartments, Roman Susan Art Gallery, Archie’s Cafe, and has unique architectural, historical, and cultural significance that we believe makes the flat-iron structure a strong candidate for Chicago Landmark Designation. Kristin’s request for landmark consideration is now being reviewed by Commission staff who will conduct further historical research to deduce if the building matches standards for landmark status. If you would like to express your support for landmarking the building, please visit romansusan.org/1234 to add your name.
Senator Simmons Attends Groundbreaking at The Haven, a New Transitional Housing and Care Residence at Foster and Lincoln, in Lincoln Square
Caption: Senator Simmons, Alderman Vasquez, and Mayor Johnson shovel dirt for the Haven’s groundbreaking ceremony.
I recently joined Mayor Johnson, Alderman Vasquez, and community partners in a groundbreaking ceremony for The Haven, a brand-new transitional housing and care residence being built at 5230 N. Lincoln Ave in Lincoln Square. This will be a home for folks trying to get back on their feet while providing intensive on-site healthcare, social services and case management. The Haven is just around the corner from where I grew up in one of the first scattered-site three flat apartment buildings built on the North Side in response to a Supreme Court housing desegregation ruling. I can say from experience that this neighborhood has a history of supporting individuals and families in need of accessible, affordable housing. I am thrilled construction of The Haven is already underway and look forward to welcoming our new neighbors when it opens!
Chicago Math and Science Academy Hosts Senator Simmons for National Coming Out Day
Caption: Senator Simmons speaks to students about his coming out journey and answers questions about his experience as an LGBTQ+ legislator.
October 11th was National Coming Out Day, and I had the honor of joining students at Chicago Math and Science Academy (CMSA) for their 2nd Annual Pride Party. This is an important journey for anyone who is LGBTQ+, and I was honored to speak to CMSA students about my own experience and answer questions about my journey, sharing advice for LGBTQ+ students as they continue to learn, grow, and discover their true and complete selves.
ONE Northside Town Hall
Caption: Senator Simmons speaks in support of affordable, accessible housing at the ONE Northside Town Hall, hosted by the Ismaili Center.
It was a joy to fervently support housing preservation and rights at the ONE Northside Town Hall earlier this month. Access to affordable and safe housing is the number one issue my office assists constituents with, and I look forward to working to further preserve and create more housing in the 7th District.
At the town hall, we also committed to continuing to support Parent Mentor programs and violence prevention in our far north side communities. These programs are crucial to the safety and success of our young people, and I am glad that violence prevention programs are slated to expand in Rogers Park, Uptown, and Edgewater in coming months. The resources I grew up with, such as access to public transportation, parks, and grocery stores, are amenities that every person needs. I am committed to continuing the fight. I am so grateful to ONE Northside for hosting this huge event!
Senator Simmons and Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth Host Community Meeting with Hollywood House Residents
Many of you are familiar with Hollywood House, a senior-only residence located at 5700 N. Sheridan Rd in Edgewater. My office regularly assists residents of Hollywood House, and is keenly aware of its needs.
To address and re-introduce the new ownership, Full Circle, and management, 5T, of the building, Representative Cassidy, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth and I held a resident community meeting in October to introduce them to residents and answer any questions or concerns. We are committed to partnering with ownership and management to provide the highest quality of life for these, and all residents of the 7th District.
Senator Simmons Joins The People’s Lobby for their 2024 Public Meeting
Caption: Senator Simmons speaks to the room at The People’s Lobby 2024 Public Meeting.
I joined hundreds of The People’s Lobby members, community organizers, and elected officials for their 2024 Public Meeting. We discussed the legislative progress we’ve made together and hopes for the future regarding protecting and expanding worker’s rights, advancing justice reform, expanding healthcare access across Illinois, securing equitable affordable housing, decreasing mass incarceration, and more. Grassroots organizers such as The People’s Lobby are vital for ensuring government officials are truly representing the wishes of the people and not corporate interests. Thank you to The People’s Lobby for its organizing efforts and having me at its latest Public Meeting!
Senator Simmons in the News
- Simmons Attends White House States Convening on Child Care by Illinois Senate Democrats
- State Sen. Mike Simmons, a Chicago Democrat, was at the White House on Friday (From 9/30/24 Illinois Playbook Newsletter) by Politico
- Treasurer Frerichs honors Illinois LGBTQ+ leaders during LGBTQ+ History Month by WAND
- Frerichs hosts event recognizing LGBTQ+ community leaders and activists by Windy City Times
- ‘Housing is a human right’: Pending affordable housing closures threaten North Side residents’ homes by The Depaulia
- Simmons Receives LGBTQ+ Leader Award from State Treasurer Frerichs by Illinois Senate Democrats
In the Community
Small Business Walk with Lieutenant Governor Stratton at Las Delicias
Caption: Chief of Staff, Heather Saenger, shares lunch with Lieutenant Governor Stratton and staff from the Rogers Park Business Alliance at Las Delicias.
Earlier this month, my chief of staff, Heather Saenger, had the opportunity to walk along the Rogers Park Clark Street business corridor with the Rogers Park Business Alliance and Lieutenant Governor Stratton. They were able to stop in and meet business owners, listen to the histories of their businesses, and discuss challenges, and identify needs. They were received with the warmth and hospitality that Clark Street businesses are known for, and it was a wonderful opportunity to advocate for support and resources. We look forward to continuing to bring the needs of our entrepreneurs and small mom and pop businesses with us to Springfield!
Catalpa Pride Crosswalk Ribbon Cutting
Caption: Gabby, my Operations and Outreach Coordinator, at the ribbon cutting for the new Catalpa Pride Crosswalk.
Gabby, my Operations and Outreach Coordinator, along with members of the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce, 48th Ward Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth, and the City of Chicago, and the Chicago LGBTQ+ Advisory Council came together at Women & Children for a ribbon cutting in celebration of the new Catalpa Pride Crosswalk. This newest addition embraces and uplifts the pride we all have for our great community. Thank you to all the organizations that made this possible!
Mobile Care Chicago Trick or Teeth
Caption: Gabby, Operations and Outreach Coordinator at Mobile Care Chicago’s Trick or Teeth event in Rogers Park.
Gabby attended Mobile Care Chicago’s “Trick or Teeth” event in partnership with Smack Dab in Rogers Park earlier this month. Mobile Care Chicago is a free mobile dental facility that can provide immediate, on-site dental check ups and treatments. At the event, dozens of families came and got their teeth cleaned! The event was just in time to make sure everyone is healthy in time for Halloween and the rest of the school year. Thank you Mobile Care Chicago for coming to Rogers Park!
Lincoln Square Apple Fest
Caption: Heather Saenger, Chief of Staff & State Senator Mike Simmons
I enjoyed kicking off fall festivities in Lincoln Square at Apple Fest! I loved hearing from constituents who stopped by our tent to connect about getting their licenses from IDFPR, grabbing coloring books, or sharing an opinion. Thank you to all our fantastic volunteers, and especially to the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce for hosting this much-loved event that has become an annual tradition for so many!
Minority Business Symposium
Caption: George West (left), Senator Mike Simmons (center), and Marcel Marsh (right).
I was honored to speak at Westpoint Financial Group’s Minority Small Business Symposium to small business owners. It was wonderful to hear from the panelists and talk directly with small business owners about starting their own businesses. Thank you for having me!
Uptown African Business Networking
Caption: 46th Ward, African Small Business Owners, Demera owner Tigist (4th from the left), Gabby Tewodros (Operations & Outreach Coordinator), John Blick (Uptown Chamber of Commerce Business Director, 2nd to last right)
The Uptown Chamber of Commerce held an African Small Business networking event hosted by restaurant owner Tigist at Demera Restaurant in Uptown located at 4801 N Broadway. Gabby met with local owners and celebrated the diverse beauty of the 7th District. I’m excited to continue to discuss & develop programs for our small businesses with the Chamber!
Uptown People’s Law Center History Tour
Caption: Alan Mills, Executive Director of UPLC who is stepping down after 45 years of leadership, led the tour.
Connor, Manager of Constituent Services, joined Uptown People’s Law Center (UPLC) for a historic tour around Uptown. Located at 4413 N. Sheridan Rd, UPLC is a community legal clinic that formed in 1975. On the tour, Alan pointed out apartment buildings that had residents he represented in the past, and he even showed up where UPLC was first formed above where Emerald City Coffee is now. UPLC has been an amazing partner with my office in assisting constituents in need of housing legal assistance. If you are in need of legal support or want to learn more about their organization, history, mission, click here.
Buena Park Neighbors Block Party
Caption: Senator Simmons and Alderwoman Clay table at the Buena Park Neighbors Block Party.
I had a wonderful time at the Buena Park Neighbors Block Party, one of the biggest of the year. It was great connecting with some neighbors I haven’t seen in a while, enjoying the lovely Fall weather, and hanging out with Alderwoman Angela Clay!
Caption: Senator Simmons chatting with neighbors about legislative updates and ideas for the upcoming Veto session in November.
Budlong Blooms Peace Garden Visit
Caption: Senator Simmons and Budlong Elementary educators in the Peace Garden.
Budlong Elementary has a brand new Peace Garden, a dedicated natural learning space for students to experience nature and see native plants firsthand. I am thrilled that students at my elementary alma mater now have this garden to develop a deeper connection with the natural world!
CLESE 35th Anniversary Celebration
Caption: Senator Simmons’ Chief of Staff, Heather Saenger, thanks CLESE for 35 years of service.
In late summer, my Chief of Staff, Heather Saenger had the honor of attending CLESE’s 35th Anniversary Celebration. CLESE stands for the Coalition of Limited English Speaking Elderly, and is an organization that promotes understanding, sensitivity, and insight into culturally diverse communities. CLESE is made up of many local and regional non-profit social service organizations dedicated to providing resources in over 100 languages to our seniors. If you or someone you know might benefit from translation services, you can learn more and connect with CLESE at clese.org.
Race for the River 5K
Caption: Senator Natalie Toro and staff, Senator Simmons’ Chief of Staff, Heather Saenger, and Friends of the Chicago River staff at the first 5K River Run in River Park.
In late summer, the Friends of the Chicago River organization hosted their very first 5K River Run at River Park. Heather was able to congratulate runners as they finished their race along with Senator Natalie Toro and her staff. Friends of the Chicago River has also hosted annual clean-up events, and advocates to protect and restore the Chicago-Calumet River system for all people, water, and wildlife.
Resources
Mental Health Resources
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
To begin your LIHEAP application for Cook County residents, click HERE.
Court Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) Now Open
The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) is now reopened! My colleagues and I worked hard to secure $90 million in the FY25 State Budget dedicated to addressing homelessness, particularly in our Black and African American communities, with a vast majority of these dollars being dedicated to the CBRAP program. This important program provides funding to Illinois tenants and housing providers/ landlords across Illinois who have pending cases in eviction court. Applicants may qualify for up to $15,000 in emergency rental payments that can be applied to past due rent, up to $500 for court costs, and up to two months’ future rent to prevent eviction. You can apply online at ilhousinghelp.org. Please call my office if you have any questions about the program or trouble applying: 773-769-1717.
IDFPR Launches New Online System for Job License Applications, 3 License Applications Now Available
CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment) will eliminate the need for paper applications, give applicants more control over their application materials, and help prevent deficient applications from being submitted. Three pilot professions may begin applying using CORE today, while all other professions licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation will be added in additional phases over the next two years. The three pilot professions are Clinical Psychologists, Nail Technicians, and Music Therapists. Learn more about the future of Illinois job licensing with CORE in an informational video on IDFPR’s website: idfpr.illinois.gov/core.
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! If you ever want to reach out to our office, please call us at 773-769-1717, and we will respond promptly. We can also be reached at
