EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt is encouraging local grocers to apply for funding through the Illinois Grocery Initiative for the purchase of updated energy-efficient equipment.

“There are many factors that play a part in operating a successful grocery store,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Through the Equipment Upgrades Grant Program, our local grocery stores have the opportunity to receive funding to aid in purchasing necessary, updated equipment.”

Rising energy costs lead to outdated equipment, which presents a major expense for small community grocers. Under the Equipment Upgrades Program, eligible grocers can apply for grants to upgrade heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment; refrigeration units and freezers; lighting systems; and other systems providing significant energy savings.

Eligible grocers should apply online by March 25. In order to support the businesses most in-need, grocers must be independently-owned with fewer than 500 employees and no more than four grocery stores. Grocery stores located in food deserts as defined by the USDA map will be given priority.

The Equipment Upgrades Program is the first program to be rolled out as a part of the Illinois Grocery Initiative’s efforts to address food insecurity by supporting local grocers and reducing food deserts.

“We need to consider all that goes into functioning grocers and provide them with help in any way we can,” said Belt. “Upgrading store equipment is a step in the right direction to ensuring we have accessible grocers to help combat food insecurity.”

The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will hold webinars to assist applicants on Jan. 31 at 10 a.m. and Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. Learn more about the Illinois Grocery Initiative here.

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.