MAYWOOD – The Park District of Forest Park and Westchester Park District are set to receive over $1 million for land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford announced Friday.

“This funding will have a positive impact on our communities and help ensure they stay vibrant and welcoming,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Friends walking in the park, families going to the playground or individuals walking their dog will all feel the benefits of this grant program.”

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that has become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. The Park District of Forest Park is set to receive $424,200 and Westchester Park District will receive $600,000.

I had the opportunity to speak with Cory Thames on his podcast,” In My Own Words,” at CAN TV and share my life experiences and struggles I have faced. I am grateful to have shared these experiences that shaped my political journey and inspired the legislation I have worked on tirelessly to this day.

Last week I joined Governor JB Pritzker to discuss a Blueprint for Transformation for providing state-of-the-art and best-practice treatment in behavioral health care for Illinois Children.

Investment in our state’s youth through a holistic, whole-child approach provides them with the key resources and support they need to succeed. We are taking a positive step toward ensuring families of children who struggle with severe behavior health needs are uplifted and have access to the high-quality care they deserve.

SPRINGFIELD – Thanks to Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford, Feb. 28 will now be declared as Black Women’s History Day in Illinois.

“Black women have a rich and impactful history in Illinois,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “We should honor those who shaped and molded U.S. history in innumerable and irrefutable ways.”

Feb. 28 intentionally connects the nationally recognized months of February with Black History Month and March with Women's History Month, uplifting the unique intersectionality of race and gender of being both Black and women. Lightford led Senate Resolution 37 to enshrine the day as Black Women’s History Month in Illinois.

“It’s important to recognize the Black women that have risen above their circumstances in the face of adversity, not just to survive but also excel in every community across the state,” said Lightford. “My hope is that every Illinoisan will take the initiative to learn more about the wonderful Black women that have made history in the past, present and looking forward to the future.”

Senate Resolution 37 passed on Wednesday.