Belt announces grant funding for pre-apprenticeship programming

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt is encouraging local community organizations and education institutions to apply for grants from the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program to give more young people a path into the trades.

“We have seen local success with the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “There is a pool of money out there for the entire state, so the more local organizations apply, the more we can get our share of it to help our community.”

Read more: Belt announces grant funding for pre-apprenticeship programming

July Newsletter

Dear friend,

The spring legislative session is behind us, and I’m proud of the progress we made to uplift working families and invest in our state’s future. This year, I focused on expanding access to blue collar careers and apprenticeship opportunities, helping more students stay in Illinois for college and protecting consumers from scams.

Read on to find out more about these efforts and other updates, including new legislation, available resources and what's happening in our area.

Of course, the work doesn’t end here. I’m already meeting with community members and advocates to shape next year’s legislative agenda and I want to hear from you. If there’s an issue you care about, please don’t hesitate to contact my East St. Louis office at (618) 875-1212, Swansea office at (618) 416-2452 or visit SenatorBelt.com.

It’s an honor to serve you in the Illinois Senate. Wishing you and your family a safe and healthy summer.
 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

 

Christopher Belt

State Senator | 57th District

Read more: July Newsletter

Belt secures over $400,000 for Metro East libraries

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt announced 13 libraries across St. Clair and Madison counties are set to receive a combined total of over $400,000 for library services and programming.

“Libraries are essential learning environments where children and students can explore, grow and thrive,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Investing in libraries means investing in the next generation, giving them the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”

Read more: Belt secures over $400,000 for Metro East libraries

More than $480,000 in tourism grants coming to Metro East thanks to Belt

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt secured nearly half a million dollars in grant funding to boost tourism in the Metro East.

“Investing in tourism brings more people to Illinois, boosting the local economy and creating more jobs,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “With the Metro East bordering Missouri, we have seen how these investments encourage people to visit from out of state. Whether you’re a family-owned restaurant or a new boutique, investments in tourism help our entire community.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $6.3 million was awarded to 36 grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program, Tourism Attractions Grant Program and Tourism Private Sector Grant Program.

Read more: More than $480,000 in tourism grants coming to Metro East thanks to Belt