SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons was joined by State Representative Norma Hernandez, Alderman Lamont Robinson and advocates from AIDS Foundation Chicago, BLACHE, TaskForce Prevention and Community Services, School of Opulence, and the Springfield Urban League at a press conference Tuesday to advocate for over $6 million for HIV funding infrastructure in Illinois through Senate Bill 2814, which would restore funding for Illinois’ PrEP Medication Assistance Program and allocate funding for STI screening.

“For the fourth year in a row, I am proud to carry legislation that provides full funding for HIV prevention and treatment, and helps us get to zero new HIV/AIDS diagnoses by 2030.”  said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Through the work of providers, advocates, policymakers and people living with and vulnerable to HIV, Illinois has made real progress toward ending the HIV epidemic in our state. We must continue to make sure Illinoisans living with HIV do not lose access to the care they need.”

Through the Illinois AIDS Drug Assistance Program, known as Illinois ADAP, residents living with HIV/AIDS have access to life-saving medications which in turn prevent further HIV transmissions via viral suppression. Now, amid a storm of proposed federal budget cuts, the impact of slashing Medicaid and the expiration of enhanced ACA premium tax credits have increased risks for residents who depend on Illinois ADAP and could leave them without access to medications that keep them healthy.

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons announced Trilogy Inc. has been selected to participate in a federal program designed to expand and improve access to coordinated mental health care and substance use treatment.

“Mental health care is a basic human right. Everyone should be able to access necessary treatment regardless of their level of health insurance, where they live, their race, gender, sexual orientation, primary language or any other factor,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “The accessibility and availability of mental health support is paramount to our society, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to see this program expand access to mental and behavioral health care right here in the 7th District.”

CHICAGO – To inform and educate local residents on fraud awareness and prevention, State Senator Mike Simmons hosted an Advocacy and Fraud Protection for Seniors Workshop at All Saints Episcopal Church in Ravenswood on Friday, November 3, in partnership with Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Office.

“This event is in direct response to an influx of senior fraud and identity theft cases over the last few months in my district,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “I care deeply about the safety and well-being of our seniors, and I want to make sure we provide them with useful resources and advocacy for fraud prevention.”

CHICAGO – To celebrate the vibrant multiculturalism of the 7th District and connect with residents, State Senator Mike Simmons and his staff hosted “Chalk It Up” – a free, community-building event.

“It was a joy to host my second annual Chalk It Up event on Saturday, which brought together the 7th District for a day of artistic expression, multicultural pride and celebration, and of course, included food from local small businesses,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “As a proud son of an Ethiopian refugee father and Black mother, I know the importance of creating intentional spaces to share and highlight the beauty of the 7th District.”

Simmons and his staff hosted their second annual Chalk It Up event on Saturday, Sept. 2 at White “Willye B.” Park in Rogers Park to celebrate the vibrant multiculturalism of the 7th District by decorating the sidewalks with chalk drawings of the flags and symbols which constituents in his district represent. The free event featured curated music playlists, refreshments, and food catered by locally owned family business, Patio Beef.

Additionally, Simmons provided constituents with the opportunity to connect personally with him and his district office staff while assisting with state services and local resources.

“Chalk It Up is a fun, creative event that celebrates our people,” said Simmons. “It also gives our neighbors more personable access to me and our staff. Thank you to all who supported and attended this event.”

###