Preston celebrates $300,000 Back to Business grants for local small businesses

CHICAGO – With support from State Senator Willie Preston, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity recently announced the latest round of Back to Business grants awarded to businesses in the restaurant industry.

“Our local small owned business are the heart and soul of our communities,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Many of our restaurants in the 16th District took a big hit during the pandemic, but with the support of this program they have been able to continue to provide for our community.”

The Back to Business grant program provides recovery grants for small businesses throughout the state, with an emphasis on businesses in the hardest hit industries. Through the Back to Business and Business Interruption Grant programs, DCEO has provided more than $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.

Eight area restaurants in Preston’s district will receive a combined total of $300,000 through this round of Back to Business grants.

“The Back to Business grants recognize the significance of supporting small, local owned businesses throughout the state,” said Preston. “I will continue to fight for programs that support our local commerce.”

For more information about B2B grants visit DCEO’s website.

Preston takes local baseball players to the Field of Dreams for All-Star Game

CHICAGO - State Senator Willie Preston gave local south side high school baseball players a surprise of a lifetime with a trip to one of the most famous baseball fields last weekend.

“I am pleased I was able to bring such an amazing opportunity to the players and coaches from the 16th District,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “I want our next generation of kids to know that there is life beyond our neighborhood and that we believe in them and will support them by investing in their dreams and futures.”

At 6 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 13, teammates from Leo, Oaklawn, Simeon, Perspective’s, and Lindblom high schools packed on to a bus to play in State Senator Willie Preston’s Field of Dreams All Star Game at the legendary Field of Dreams from the 1989 film. The baseball players were also able to meet and train with professional baseball players and coaches.

Preston has developed a strong relationship with the schools and the administration in his district. As a newly elected official, he has supported back to school drives, food giveaways, and other community events.

“I am so proud of these young, talented men and their dedication both on and off the field,” said Preston. “Being able to show them they matter and so do their futures is exactly why we brought them to the Field of Dreams.”

MEDIA ADVISORY: Senator Preston invites media to Field of Dreams Little League All Star Game

Preston also encourages media to attend farewell and return of team

CHICAGO – State Senator Willie Preston will transport a group of Chicago youth Little League players to the original Field of Dreams from the 1989 movie in Dyersville, Iowa for an All Star Game where they will have the opportunity to train with and gain exposure from major baseball influencers.

Preston is inviting media to attend the farewell and return of the team’s trip from 8500 S. Pulaski Rd, or to the game itself. Members of the media are encouraged to meet the kids, their families and Senator Preston just before 7 a.m. or upon their return around 7 p.m.

WHO: State Senator Willie Preston and children ages 13-18 in partnership with Northwestern Hospital

WHAT: Little League All Star Game for training and exposure with influential sports personnel

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: 28995 Lansing Rd., Dyersville, Iowa 52040

The bus will leave from 8500 S. Pulaski at 7 a.m. and return at 7 p.m. Members of the media are welcome to attend.

Preston’s new law creates more successful reentry pathways for returning residents

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston championed a new law that will require the Secretary of State to provide returning residents with an Illinois ID upon receipt of identifying documents the state will assist the individuals in obtaining.

“We are creating pathways for life after incarceration that will put every Illinoisan in a position to thrive,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Offering formerly incarcerated individuals the support and resources they need to reintegrate back into their communities is necessary to reduce recidivism.”

This law requires the Secretary of State to provide individuals committed to the Illinois Department of Corrections or the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice with an Illinois ID upon receipt of the individual’s birth certificate, social security card, photograph and proof of residency upon discharge. The DOC or DJJ will provide assistance and guidance to individuals in obtaining these documents.

The success of this law is due in thanks to the support of community organizations and advocates for criminal justice reform such as Restore Justice, Ex-Cons for Community and Social Change, and the SAFER Foundation.

“Individuals reentering society often face barriers finding housing, employment, medical care, financial planning and social services because of the difficulty of obtaining an ID,” said Preston. “This law ensures everyone receives the support they need to return to their communities.”

House Bill 3345 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.

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