EAST ST. LOUIS – As businesses continue to suffer from the ongoing pandemic, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is pleased more than a million dollars has been collectively awarded to 28 local businesses during the second round of the Business Interruption Grant program. 

“Small businesses help bolster our local economies, and during this time, they need more assistance than ever,” Belt said. “Local businesses were some of the hardest hit groups financially, and I am thankful they will receive the help and relief they deserve.” 

Read more: Belt announces 28 local business have received the Business Interruption Grant

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) expressed his support for Thursday’s joint committee hearing on increasing diversity in labor unions, apprenticeship programs and the workforce.

“Diversity and inclusion are essential in creating a well-rounded, productive, successful labor force,” Belt said. “Labor unions and apprenticeship programs are enormously helpful to workers entering the industry. When we expand these services to reach people of color, it can enable more Illinoisans to find good-paying, lifelong careers.”

Read more: Belt expresses his support for increasing diversity in labor unions  

EAST ST. LOUS – To help slow the spread of the number of positive COVID-19 cases in the Metro East, State Senator Christopher Belt urges residents to wear a mask and continue to social distance.

“If residents do not do their part in protecting themselves and other community members, we will not be able to stop the amount of people who get the virus,” Belt said. “Residents need to continue to wear a mask and properly social distance to keep ourselves and loved ones safe.”

Read more: Belt urges community members to help slow the spread of COVID-19

MARYVILLE – To patronize small businesses during the pandemic, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) and State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) are encouraging Metro East residents to shop small this holiday season to support local businesses.

“The money you spend at a local business stays within our town and community, fostering our local economies,” Belt said. “This holiday season, I urge residents to shop locally to help support our local businesses during this difficult time and encourage economic growth in our community.”

“As the holiday season approaches, I want to remind residents of the special, unique services and gifts the Metro East small business community provides,” Crowe said. “By supporting small businesses, we can help our friends and neighbors in this difficult time while investing in our local economies.”

Read more: Belt, Crowe urge residents to shop local this holiday season