EAST ST. LOUIS – As many teachers and students adapt to e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) announced schools in St. Clair and Madison Counties will receive over $2 million to provide the necessary resources to students who lack access to remote learning technology. 

“E-learning has been difficult for many students in disadvantaged areas, who might not have access to the internet or a computer,” Belt said. “These grants will support schools’ efforts to make sure every student can actively participate in class, even from outside the classroom.”  

The Digital Equity Formula Grant will help ensure students have the technology they need to access robust and equitable learning opportunities this fall. School districts may use the grant to purchase additional devices and connectivity or to cover purchases made since March 13, 2020.

Local school districts receiving funding include:

Read more: Belt announces local schools will receive over $2 million to keep students engaged during remote...

EAST ST. LOUIS – With the deadline to fill out the 2020 census coming to a close nextWednesday, Metro East legislators and community leaders are urging all
St. Clair and Madison County residents to fill out the census to improve the low response rates.

“Filling out the census is an easy process and a 100% response rate is critical in sustaining the quality in community assets such as schools, roads and hospitals,” Belt (D-Centreville) said. “Sept. 30 is the last day to get counted and millions of dollars in federal funding is at risk if residents don’t take getting counted seriously. I strongly urge all residents to fill out the census before it’s too late.” 

In St. Clair County, participation in the 2020 census is currently lower than in the 2010 census. Only 67.2% of St. Clair County residents have completed their census form this year, as opposed to 70% of residents in 2010. Seven municipalities in St. Clair County and one in Madison County have a rate of 55% or under. The cities and villages included by name and rate listed are:

Read more: Belt joined area legislators to urge residents to complete the 2020 census

EAST ST. LOUIS – More than two dozen local businesses saw relief from the first round of Business Interruption Grants, leading State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) to encourage more small businesses facing economic hardship to apply for the second round.

“Our state is continuing to support small businesses during this pandemic, and business owners who face financial struggles because of the pandemic should take advantage,” Belt said. “Twenty-five local businesses are currently benefiting from the first round, and I hope to see more area businesses benefit.” 

Read more: Belt encourages local businesses to apply for the second round of Businesses Interruption Grants

EAST ST. LOUIS – To support the state’s ongoing pandemic response, the U.S. Department of Labor established two new grants that will create close to 1,300 jobs throughout Illinois. State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) announced Friday both St. Clair and Madison County will be awarded close to $1.7 million. 

“As a result of this pandemic, many unemployed people have been without work and have even considered changing careers. This is why an investment to recruit, train, and hire is so vital in supporting our state’s pandemic response,” Belt said. “I am proud to see that both St. Clair and Madison County will benefit from these grants to create job opportunities for local residents.” 

Read more: Belt announces St. Clair and Madison County to benefit from new U.S. Department grants