DANVILLE – The City of Danville is among the 100 recipients of Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants distributed through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, State Senator Paul Faraci announced Thursday.

“Our parks and outdoors spaces are vital for providing families and friends with areas to gather and connect,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This funding ensures Garfield Park will continue to be a source of activity and fun for future generations to enjoy.”

More than $55 million in state grants are being awarded for 100 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities. In Faraci’s district, Garfield Park in Danville is set to receive $600,000 through the OSLAD program for revitalization efforts.

CHAMPAIGN – The Champaign Park District and the Champaign County Forest Preserve District are among the 100 recipients of Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants distributed through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, State Senator Paul Faraci announced Thursday.

“All communities deserve the same opportunities to flourish,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This funding will help create spaces where everyone – regardless of ability – can come together and connect. I’m proud to support these projects and the opportunities they will bring to the residents of our district.”

More than $55 million in state grants are being awarded for 100 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities. In Faraci’s district, the Champaign Park District will receive $600,000 to develop an All Abilities Activity Hub, while the Champaign County Forest Preserve will be awarded over $1.1 million through the OSLAD program.  

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci is continuing his efforts to improve access to mental health care for veterans and first responders through legislation aimed at strengthening recent reforms.

“First responders and veterans deserve unrestricted access to the care they need to protect their mental health,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This measure ensures there’s no uncertainty about who is covered under this law and reinforces our commitment to improving mental health access in Illinois.”

Earlier this year, Faraci sponsored Senate Bill 2737 to ensure first responders and veterans can seek mental health care from providers of their choice by limiting the impact of non-compete clauses in employment contracts. The new law, which takes effect Jan. 1, was prompted by concerns from a mental health provider who was sued for providing health care services to a firefighter under a non-compete clause.

CHAMPAIGN – During the winter months, hats, gloves and hand warmers are among the most essential items requested by people experiencing homelessness, leading State Senator Paul Faraci and the U of I Community Credit Union to co-host a donation drive collecting new cold-weather items for shelters in Champaign County.

“Champaign County shelters are vital for supporting our community, especially when winter weather sets in,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “By coming together and donating these essential items, we can ensure no residents have to face the cold unprepared.”

From now until Nov. 25, community members are encouraged to donate new hats, gloves and hand warmers for adults and children to help neighbors in need stay warm this winter. Donated items will be distributed to local shelters, ensuring vulnerable individuals are protected as temperatures drop.