Yingling Highlights “Help Illinois Families” Program

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – With the COVID-19 pandemic putting many residents in dangerous financial situations, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, is encouraging residents to apply for aid through the new “Help Illinois Families” program.

“The working families of my district have had an enormous financial burden placed on them due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and they need relief now,” said Yingling. “Families should not have to pick between buying groceries or paying their bills, and I will do everything in my power to find the resources and support that they need.”

The Pritzker Administration and the Illinois Department of Commerce Economic Opportunity (DCEO) launched the Help Illinois Family program to provide direct financial support to low-income Illinois families during the current health crisis. Residents can receive financial assistance for food, energy bills, and temporary shelter, among other categories. For more information, or to apply, please visit the Help Illinois Families page at https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/CommunityServices/HomeWeatherization/CommunityActionAgencies/Pages/HelpIllinoisFamilies.aspx.

According to the Illinois Department of Employment Securities (IDES), the unemployment rate in Lake County in May 2020 was 12.9%, a 9.9% increase from May 2019. In response to the financial hardship indicated by the substantial rise in unemployment rates, Yingling has worked to bring financial support to the community by expanding unemployment benefits. Yingling has also worked to bring attention to various programs that provide financial resources to residents and small businesses throughout the district.

“Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, property taxes and other costs were already stretching many families thin,” Yingling said. “I am committed to bringing financial relief to residents, whether it’s in the form of property tax relief, COVID-19 resources, utility bill assistance, or other means.”