Illinois State Senator Mike Simmons

Simmons highlights energy bill assistance for 7th District residents

Details: Category: Press Releases; Thursday, October 01, 2026 11:35 AM

LIHEAP Graphic

CHICAGO – To help residents with rising energy costs, State Senator Mike Simmons is encouraging residents and families in the 7^th District to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

“LIHEAP is an important resource that helps families across Illinois manage their energy costs and keep their homes safe and comfortable,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “If you or someone you know is struggling with utility bills, I encourage you to learn more about the program and see if you qualify for assistance.”

The LIHEAP program – which opens Oct. 1 – utilizes a priority application system to ensure that families most in need can apply first. All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to two times the federal poverty level are eligible to receive support through LIHEAP. A chart with the eligible income thresholds can be found here.

Simmons secures strong investment to expand 7th District workforce training, development

Details: Category: Press Releases; Thursday, September 10, 2026 10:38 AM

WorkforceDevelopmentPrograms

CHICAGO – In an effort to expand workforce training, State Senator Mike Simmons helped secure $285,199 to connect workers with the skills and resources they need to enter in-demand careers while helping employers build the qualified workforce they need to grow.

“Workforce investments create opportunities for people to gain the skills and experience they need to build a strong future,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “These investments strengthen communities across the 7th District by breaking down barriers to employment and ensuring more people have access to training, resources and opportunities they need to succeed.”

More than $11 million in funding was awarded to 23 organizations across Illinois through the Job Training and Economic Development Program, aimed at expanding workforce training, career pathways and support services for Illinoisans facing barriers to employment. JTED addresses the economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed or underrepresented, including youth who have one or more barriers to employment.

Simmons encourages local organizations to apply for pre-apprenticeship funding

Details: Category: Press Releases; Friday, September 04, 2026 01:11 PM

Apprenticeship Program

CHICAGO — To expand the 7th District’s talent pipeline and boost diversity in Illinois’ construction and building trades, State Senator Mike Simmons is encouraging local community-based organizations to apply for the latest round of funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

“Programs like Illinois Works give people the skills, experience and support they need to take the first step toward a good-paying career,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “By investing in organizations that are already doing this work in our communities, we’re creating stronger pathways into the trades and helping more people build a stable future for themselves and their families.”

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity with the goal of increasing access to apprenticeship programs to a more diverse pool of candidates. These comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide graduates a greater opportunity to start a long-term career in the trades. Since the program’s inception, Illinois Works has awarded over $70 million to community-based organizations serving over 7,000 Illinois residents.

Simmons applauds funding for local literacy programs

Details: Category: Press Releases; Monday, August 17, 2026 11:56 AM

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CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons is proud to announce eight organizations in the 7^th District will be receiving over $800,000 for literacy program enhancements, workplace skills development and more.

“These organizations serve as focal points for folks around the community to find services and opportunities to grow and develop their skills,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This funding will enhance opportunities for folks improving their literacy skills and prepare more people for success in the workforce.”

The latest round of funding through the Illinois Secretary of State includes more than $28 million for library services and literacy programs throughout Illinois. The grants will enhance online catalogs at local libraries, support day-to-day operations and expand interlibrary loan programs. Funding also supports radio information services that provide local news and information to individuals who cannot read standard print materials. Literacy grants promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills through adult, family and workplace literacy programs.

Welcome

Thank you for visiting my legislative website. It is my honor and pleasure to represent Illinois’ 7th Senate District.

Here you can find information about the 7th District, access local and state resources, and keep up to date with what’s happening at the Capitol. I hope you’ll find this website useful.

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Sincerely,

Senator Mike Simmons Signature