EAST ST. LOUIS – Recognizing the role small businesses play in the community, State Senator Christopher Belt is hosting a small business town hall Wednesday, Jan. 24 at Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Ed Campus.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and it’s important their voices are heard,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “By working together, we can explore solutions that will contribute to the continued success of these businesses.”

The town hall will be held Jan. 24 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Ed Campus, Building D in the multipurpose room, located at 601 James R. Thompson Blvd. in East St. Louis. The event is in partnership with Woodstock Institute, Small Business Majority, Community Organization and Family Issues, and United Congregations of the Metro East. There will be presentations, conversation regarding access to credit and consumer protections and time for questions. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact Senator Belt’s office at 618-875-1212.

EAST ST. LOUIS — In an effort to lift the spirits of seniors in the 57^th District, State Senator Christopher Belt invites residents of all ages to get creative and donate homemade or store-bought valentines.

“Our seniors have contributed so much to our community, and it’s important we show them love and appreciation when we can,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “A small gesture like making a Valentine’s Day card can make a significant difference in brightening someone’s day and letting them know they are valued.”

Belt is encouraging community members in the area to write Valentine’s Day cards, which can be dropped off or mailed to his district office. Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to various senior facilities in the 57^th District.

The collection of Valentine’s Day cards will run through Friday, Feb. 9. Those wishing to participate can drop off cards at one of Belt’s district offices or mail them to one of Belt’s offices at Kenneth Hall Regional Office Bldg. #10, Collinsville Ave., Suite 201A, East St. Louis, IL 62201 or #7 Park Place, Suite C, Swansea, IL 62226.

For more information, residents can contact Belt’s office at 618-875-1212

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt announced over a dozen school districts around the Metro East area have received nearly $30,000 to provide resources to libraries through books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

“Libraries play a major role in students’ academic success at all age levels,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This funding will empower our school districts to strengthen their library resources, allowing new and updated learning and technology opportunities for students.”

Funding for the School District Library Grant Program originates from the General Reserve Fund and is appropriated for this purpose by the Illinois General Assembly.

Some school districts receiving funding include:

• Belleville Township High School District 201 - $4,199
• East Saint Louis School District 189 - $3,559
• Mascoutah Community Unit District 19 - $3,473
• O'Fallon School District 90- $3,370
• Cahokia Community Unit School District 187 - $2,573

The grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support school library services for over 1 million students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade across the state.

“When we invest in school libraries, we also invest in the academic growth and future success of students,” said Belt. “I’m thrilled that many school districts in the Metro East have received this funding to enhance the functionality of their libraries.”

For a full list of libraries that received funding, visit the Secretary of State’s website.

SPRINGFIELD – A new law going into effect on Jan. 1 is expected to eliminate the number of food deserts in Illinois’ communities, thanks to State Senator Christopher Belt.

“There is no reason why individuals should struggle to find access to fresh food,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We have communities all over the state that have this issue, and it’s time that is addressed.”

In 2021, the Illinois Department of Public Health issued a study that found 807 census tracts are considered food deserts, meaning urban residents have to travel more than a half-mile and rural residents must travel more than 10 miles to get to the nearest grocery store.

Under the new law, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is required to provide grants and other forms of financial assistance to grocery stores located in or to be located in a food desert. This aims to help mitigate the issue of food deserts across the state.

“The Grocery Initiative Act is a crucial step toward ensuring equitable access to healthy food for all residents in Illinois,” said Belt. “This is a great stride toward a healthier, fairer future for all.”

Senate Bill 850 takes effect Jan. 1 2024.