WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To combat the effects of inflation and help residents in need, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, and state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, are hosting a food drive to benefit St. Andrew Lutheran Church’s weekly food distributions in partnership with the People’s Resource Center.

“As we navigate these difficult times, it is inspiring to see neighbors coming together to support each other. My office, in partnership with Sen. Villa, will be collecting food through the month of April to support St. Andrew Lutheran Church and families in our community,” Hirschauer said. “I encourage everyone to give what they can. Every donation makes a difference.”

Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at Rep. Hirschauer’s district office, 946 Neltnor Blvd #108 West Chicago, IL 60185, or St. Andrew Lutheran Church 155 N. Prince Crossing Rd. West Chicago, IL 60185. To make a monetary donation, please visit https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=dd1c61and put “St. Andrews” in the program designation box.

“I want to thank Pastor Josh Ebener and St. Andrew Lutheran Church for all the resources they have provided to the West Chicago community during the pandemic, including their weekly food distribution with People’s Resource Center,” said Villa. “I am happy to collaborate with all stakeholders to help our community.”

“So many families in our community that were already stretched thin are feeling the impact of inflation, of rising rents and prices at the grocery store and the pump,” said Pastor Josh Ebener of St. Andrew Lutheran Church. “We would welcome any monetary or food donations to ensure we can adequately respond to this great need and are grateful for all the support.”

“Inflation has become a national topic of discussion, and it is now an increasing problem for many local families,” said West Chicago Mayor Ruben Pineda. “As West Chicago families begin to feel the full effects of rising costs of living, we need to come together to support one another as a community. Donating essential goods and money to the St. Andrew Church Food Pantry is a great way to achieve this.”

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – After this week’s indictment of former House Speaker Michael Madigan, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, issued the following statement:

“The first vote I made as State Representative in the 49th District was to elect new leadership under Speaker Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch, and usher in a new day in the Illinois House. Since that time, I have worked hard every single day for the people of the 49th District. In just one year I have delivered on ethics reform, groundbreaking climate policy and a balanced budget that’s earned us our first credit ratings increase in a generation. 

“This week’s 22-count indictment handed down to former Speaker Mike Madigan is significant and proves to the people of Illinois that elected officials are not above the law and illegal behavior will be prosecuted.

“My focus continues to be on the community of the 49th District and how to best serve your diverse and important needs. There is much work to be done as we recover and rebuild after a difficult few years.”

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – As the weather begins to cool down, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is reminding residents to prepare for dangerous winter weather conditions like extreme cold, snow and ice.

“Traveling during the holiday season can be unpredictable, especially as temperature drops and winter weather conditions worsen,” Hirschauer said. “This upcoming holiday season, be sure to be prepared for winter weather both at home and while traveling.”

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) released their 2021 Winter Weather Preparedness Guide to help Illinoisans prepare for winter weather conditions. IEMA recommends that residents familiarize themselves with winter weather terms, local county names, health risks of cold weather, and prepare disaster kits for work and home. Emergency supplies kits should include a battery powered weather radio, nonperishable food items, medication, extra water, flashlights, first aid kit, pet supplies, facemasks and hand sanitizer.  For travel emergency kits, it is essential to also include a shovel, windshield scraper or brush, a tool kit, extra clothing or blankets, booster cables, and sand or cat litter.

 “As your family gathers to celebrate the holidays, be sure that they are preparing for the weather conditions and traveling safely,” Hirschauer said. “By spending the time to prepare now, families can ensure they have a safe and healthy holiday season.”

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. –State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is highlighting the open enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance.

“This year, there are more plans for Illinoisans to choose from, so it is possible to find a plan that fits your needs,” Hirschauer said. “The plans included will protect those with preexisting conditions and help give options for preventative care.”

The Illinois Department of Insurance recently announced the Open Enrollment Marketplace which runs from Nov. 1, 2021 to Jan. 15, 2022. This change allows Illinoisans an additional month to enroll in health insurance through the ACA Marketplace. This year, consumers will have more options to choose from than the previous year. For more information about health insurance options under the ACA, visit www.healthcare.gov.

 “The best way to maintain your health is to make sure that you have coverage when you need it most,” Hirschauer said. “After navigating a global pandemic, I encourage everyone to make sure they are covered.”

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To honor veterans this Veterans Day, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is celebrating the contributions of veterans and highlighting her work to support veterans.

“Veterans Day is a time to reflect and thank our service people who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom,” Hirschauer said. “It is important to recognize the contribution of our veterans and highlight ways that veterans can access resources here in Illinois.”

Hirschauer, who sits on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has supported numerous pieces of legislation to support the health and success of veterans as they return to their communities.  This year, Hirschauer supported HR 62 to investigate the COVID-19 outbreak at the LaSalle Veterans’ Home and hold people accountable for the crisis. Hirschauer also co-sponsored HB 130 to grant Veterans of World War II property tax exemptions.

 “As we prepare to return to Springfield in January, veterans’ issues remain at the forefront of building a stronger Illinois,” Hirschauer said. “I will continue to support measures to ensure that our veterans receive the resources they deserve.”

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WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To celebrate the essential role of manufacturing in the economy and the community, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is highlighting October as National Manufacturing Month.

“Manufacturers have always been essential to Illinois’ economy,” Hirschauer said. “After a tough year with limitations posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to highlight the resiliency and contributions that these manufacturers make in our communities.”

Hirschauer has supported numerous measures to help businesses and manufacturers get back on track after obstacles created by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Hirschauer supported House Bill 2454, creating the Back to Business grants for employers in manufacturing and numerous other industries. These programs will invest in local economic redevelopment, waive fees for businesses struggling due to the pandemic, and help businesses operate safely. Earlier this month, Hirschauer participated in a local manufacturing month tour of Suncast Corporation with students from Batavia High School. In total, this event hosted over 450 students from the local region to encourage students to explore high paying careers in manufacturing.

 “Manufacturers help to create local jobs and are the engines of numerous communities across the state,” Hirschauer said. “By supporting Illinois manufacturers this month and every month, we can build back a stronger economy.”