EAST ST. LOUIS – Applications for Back to Business grants through the NewBiz program open Nov. 30, and State Senator Christopher Belt is encouraging newer local businesses to apply for the funding.

“When the pandemic surfaced in 2020, many new small businesses all over the state were hit hard,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Through B2B NewBiz, we are finally giving these small business owners a chance to receive the help they have long deserved.”

Businesses that launched in 2020 or 2021 and remain in operation faced significant impacts during the pandemic, but they have not been eligible for other federal or state relief programming since they were not operational prior to the pandemic. To qualify for the B2B NewBiz program, businesses must have launched between Jan. 2020 and Dec. 2021 and be in an industry that was particularly impacted by the pandemic (outlined here), or a business that was started by an individual or individuals who became unemployed during the pandemic.

Applications will be open from Nov. 30 through Jan. 11, 2024. All eligible applicants will receive a grant as long as the business meets eligibility requirements and submits proper documentation and attestations.

“Small businesses are what make our communities unique,” said Belt. “I’m urging all newer small businesses in the Metro East to apply for this funding so they can continue to thrive.”

For more information about the B2B NewBiz program or to apply for the funding, visit b2bnewbiz.com.

DUPO — Motorists who need to renew their driver’s licenses and purchase vehicle stickers can attend a free mobile unit event Saturday sponsored by State Senator Christopher Belt.

“The mobile unit makes it easier for people to receive necessary services while cutting wait times,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I encourage residents to stop by if they need to renew their licenses or vehicle registration.”

The free event is on a first come, first serve basis and will be held Saturday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Dupo Village Hall, located at 107 N. 2^nd St. The unit operates like a DMV office and offers driver’s license renewals, identification cards and license plate stickers.

Belt invites local veterans to utilize this event to add a veteran designation to their driver’s license or state ID. For veteran designation, residents must bring their DD-214 or Form 13038. For more information about veteran ID services, call the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs at 1-800-437-9824.

With questions or for additional information, contact Senator Belt’s office at 618-875-1212.

EAST ST. LOUIS – With Veterans Day approaching, State Senator Christopher Belt is reminding residents about the Illinois Governor’s Challenge, which created the Veterans Crisis Line and online training resources for organizations interested in supporting service members, veterans and their families (SMVF).

“Our veterans have sacrificed a lot for our freedom, and it is our duty to provide them with the support they deserve,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This initiative is a lifeline for those facing challenges, offering help and services when they need it most.”

The statewide Veterans Crisis Line serves SMVF and those who support them. The crisis line is free, confidential and available 24/7. Callers do not need to be enrolled in VA services to use the Veterans Crisis Line. For support, SMVF can call 988 directly and then press 1, text 838255, or chat with a trained professional online at VeteransCrisisLine.net . 

The Governor's Challenge has partnered with PsychArmor, a national nonprofit providing education and training to improve the outcomes of military-connected individuals, to offer free online courses to prevent suicide among SMVF. The online training program is open to anyone, with short courses geared toward health care professionals, mental health providers, social workers, educators, clergy, community members and others who work with service members and veterans in need or their families. Training courses are available by visiting Illinois-SMVF.PsychArmor.org.

“The Governor's Challenge has successfully raised awareness of suicide among veterans and how each of us can play a role in helping veterans in crisis,” said Terry Prince, director of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs. “We invite everyone to join this crusade and protect those who have protected us.”

For more information and to get involved with the Illinois Governor’s Challenge, visit SaveVets.Illinois.gov.

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt recently announced a total of $400,000 in funding for two outdoor trails in the 57^th District through the Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

“There is nothing better than to see frequently used outdoor spaces receive funds to improve their accessibility for residents,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Spending time outdoors has been proven to enhance our health and well-being, and it’s great we are allowing this to happen by making spaces like this more convenient and safe for everyone.”

The funds for the program come from a percentage of motor vehicle title fees, providing a maximum grant award of $200,000 per project for development projects, with no maximum grant award limit for land acquisition projects.

Madison County Transit District will receive $200,000 for the creation of a new trail, the Chain of Rocks Shared Use Path, which will benefit Madison County residents by having a safe, all-weather surfaced path for travel, commuting and recreation. St Clair County Transit District will receive $200,000 for the MetroBikeLink Extension. The trail will be expanded by three miles to enhance the growing trail system.

“These funds will allow Madison County Transit to significantly improve the walkability, ADA accessibility and connections to bus routes in this busy corridor,” said SJ Morrison, MCT managing director. “We are grateful to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois General Assembly for their ongoing commitment to safety and livability in Madison County.”

For more information about IDNR’s bike path grants and to see a list of the latest round of recipients, click here.