CHICAGO, Ill. – State Representative Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, is partnering with The Center for Disability & Elder Law to host a free educational presentation for older adults on the

importance of Power of Attorney documents and advance care planning. The presentation, “Power of Attorney,” will be held on Wednesday, August 19, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Austin-Irving Park Library, 6100 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60634. During the presentation, attendees will learn about creating Power of Attorney documents and a Living Will Declaration. These important legal documents help ensure that an individual’s wishes are honored if they are ever unable to make decisions for themselves. While the event is geared toward seniors, anyone age 18 or older is encouraged to have these documents in place. Life can change in an instant, and putting your wishes in writing helps protect both you and your loved ones.

Following another successful high turnout Senior Resource Fair in February, Rep. LaPointe’s team recognized a strong interest from older adults for additional educational programming.

Through conversations with members of the Senior Advisory Council, led by Rep. LaPointe’s team in partnership with Eden United Church of Christ, participants identified topics they wanted to learn more about. In response, Rep. LaPointe’s team is launching the Senior Series, an ongoing educational program designed to connect older adults with trusted organizations, important resources, and relevant government agencies. The series will feature presentations approximately four times each year, with topics determined by the interests and needs of the community.

“Seniors are a vital and active part of our community,” LaPointe said. “Our older neighbors want opportunities to learn, connect with one another, and continue serving as advocates in our

communities. It’s our responsibility to help create those opportunities. In addition to hosting community events that bring critical resources directly to residents, state electeds also have a responsibility to fight for policy changes at the state level. This spring, Rep. LaPointe joined her General Assembly colleagues in passing several measures that will benefit

older adults, including the Road Safety & Fairness Act and Senate Bill 642, which expands property tax relief by increasing the income eligibility limits for the Senior Freeze Homestead

Exemption.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the feedback and partnership of our Senior Advisory Council members,” said LaPointe. “We encourage any seniors who are interested in joining the council

or learning more about upcoming meetings to contact our office.”

For more information or to register, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or 773-647-1174.

Who: Office of State Representative Lindsey LaPointe and The Center for Disability and Elder Law

What: Power of Attorney Presentation

When: Wednesday, August 19; 1 p.m.

Where: Austin-Irving Park Library (6100 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60634)

CHICAGO, Ill. – Creating a space for young people to engage directly with elected officials and advocacy groups, State Representative Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, and State Senator Rob Martwick, D-Chicago, will host a Youth Town Hall on Wednesday, July 29, from 6:30 p.m to 8:30 p.m at the Irving Park YMCA, 4251 W. Irving Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60641. Open to young people ages 14-19, the event highlights issues that matter most to youth, including but not limited to, mental health, education, immigration, environmental protections, and public safety.

“At a time when many young people have lost faith in government and question whether their voices matter, we have a responsibility to listen,” said LaPointe. “We are creating an environment where young people can ask questions, learn about advocacy in Illinois, and have honest conversations with the people who represent them.”

The Youth Town Hall will feature a panel discussion and roundtable Q&A with State Representative LaPointe, Alderwoman Ruth Cruz, and Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vasquez. Community organizations including the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Sierra Club Illinois, and the 17th District Police Council will also participate in the panel discussion. Additionally, Chicago Votes will offer voter registration for eligible participants.

“By bringing together elected officials and advocacy organizations, we hope this event empowers participants to stay informed and get involved,” said LaPointe. “We hope this event gives local elected officials the opportunity to hear directly from young people about the hyperlocal issues affecting their daily lives, ensuring that future policy work is informed by the experiences and perspectives of the communities it serves.”

This event is free and open to all young people aged 14-19. Advance registration is encouraged but not required. Food will be provided. To RSVP for this event, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or call 773-647-1174.

WHO: State Representative Lindsey LaPointe and State Senator Robert Matwick
WHAT: Youth Town Hall
WHEN: Wednesday, July 29th, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m.
WHERE: Irving Park YMCA, 4251 W. Irving Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60641

CHICAGO – In response to the lack of resources and support for neighbors experiencing homelessness on the Far Northwest Side of Chicago, state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago) and colleagues secured $13 million in state capital funding to support the construction and development of a shelter for older adults in Chicago’s 30th Ward. 

“When single adults in Chicago call 311 in need of emergency shelter, waiting periods can average several days or even weeks for our Northwest side neighbors. People most often wait  in police station lobbies or hospital emergency rooms,” said LaPointe. “This comes down to a sheer lack of available shelter beds across Chicagoland and zero beds on the Far Northwest side for single adults. For neighbors who call the Far Northwest side community home, turning down available beds 10-15 miles away is common, and very often people give up entirely on accessing shelter. People deserve a dignified shelter in the place they call home – the Far Northwest Side.” 

Since the spring of 2025, Rep. LaPointe and Chicago Alderwoman Ruth Cruz of the 30th Ward have worked with several local and state stakeholders to develop a thoughtful strategy to bring much-needed shelter beds to the Northwest side—targeted beds to support Chicago’s most vulnerable neighbors: older adults experiencing homelessness. In 2025, the City of Chicago estimated 7,452 people experienced homelessness, and as residents, especially local seniors, grapple with the effects of a nationwide housing crisis and the rising cost of living, these numbers are expected to rise. A local accessible and well-resourced emergency shelter is critical. 

“This is a huge win for our community. I am very grateful to the Illinois General Assembly for approving such a significant amount. I look forward to working with our state representatives, other elected officials, City departments, advocates, and neighbors to find a site for the shelter in the 30th Ward and a partner organization to run it successfully, ” said Cruz. “We will be able to provide a dignified option for neighbors who have experienced economic hardship, family instability, or health issues that left them without a roof over their heads, providing the stability and services that they need to heal and thrive. Reducing homelessness makes communities stronger and safer and directly improves lives. I’m thrilled that this funding puts us that much closer to opening a shelter on the Northwest Side.” 

In addition to Alderwoman Cruz, several state elected officials advocated to secure capital funding for a shelter in the 30th Ward on the Northwest Side, including State Rep. Will Guzzardi (D-Chicago), State Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado (D-Chicago), State Rep. Lilian Jimenez (D-Chicago), State Rep. Mike Kelly (D-Chicago), State Rep. Jaime Andrade (D-Chicago), State Sen. Graciela Guzman (D-Chicago), State Sen. Robert Martwick (D-Chicago), and State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). 

For more information, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or call 773-647-1174. 

CHICAGO – Highlighting the key policies that did and did not pass during the spring legislative session in Springfield, State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, will host an end-of-session legislative town hall in collaboration with state Sen. Rob Martwick, D-Chicago, on Wednesday, June 17th from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Copernicus Center, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave. in Chicago. 

“After months of meetings, collaborative discussions, and floor debates, our team is excited to invite far Northwest side neighbors to participate in a discussion on the biggest budgetary and policy changes that came out of Springfield this spring,” said LaPointe. “These Town Halls provide an opportunity to pull back the curtain on General Assembly happenings as we recap what was accomplished, what was left unfinished and most importantly, why. Town Halls are also an important venue for area residents to share what’s on their hearts and minds or simply to meet and connect with their local elected officials. 

With the backdrop of federal funding cuts and cost of living pain, LaPointe continues to focus on affordability, government effectiveness, and protecting Illinoisans from Trump’s harm. Spring priorities included avoiding cuts to basic services, like afterschool programs, public education and human services, healthcare and behavioral healthcare access, ethics reform, and fixing an unfair and broken tax system—to name a few. 

“We know that many neighbors feel the cost of living pain on a daily basis and need to know how state policymakers are responding. We also hear loud and clear that many far Northwest Side residents are deeply concerned about harmful and chaotic federal actions,” said LaPointe. “With this in mind, we look forward to connecting in person this June to answer tough questions, hear concerns, and come together to create solutions.” 

Food from local businesses will be provided. To RSVP for this event, please contact 

Info@RepLaPointe.com or call 773-647-1174. 

WHO: State Representative Lindsey LaPointe and State Senator Robert Martwick 

WHAT: End-of-Session Legislative Town Hall 

WHEN: Wednesday, June 17, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; doors open 5:30 p.m. 

WHERE: Copernicus Center, 5216 W. Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, IL 60630

​CHICAGO, Ill. – State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, and State Senator Rob Martwick, D-Chicago, will join the Greater Chicago Food Depository and several Far Northwest Side human service organizations to host an informational community event that unpacks federal changes to SNAP on Thursday, February 5th, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Friendship Community Place (5150 N. Northwest Hwy).

“We know many of our Far Northwest Side neighbors struggle with rising costs. On top of this, the federal government’s changes to SNAP starting February 1st create additional burdens for our local families when it comes to food access,” said LaPointe. “By hosting this event, we’re setting our neighbors up for success, ensuring that no one accidentally loses their benefits because of an administrative misstep or red tape. We also aim to connect area residents to local organizations, including our food pantries, who can help with future recertifications and offer volunteer opportunities.”

Changes to SNAP’s certification process come after President Trump signed H.R. 1 in July 2025, sometimes referred to as the “Big Beautiful Bill.” The biggest changes to SNAP include reapplications every six months instead of annually and a 80 hours per month work or volunteer requirement for able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 64. Examples of exemptions to work or volunteer requirements include disabilities, active behavioral health treatment, families with children under 14, and chronic homelessness—all of which require proactive paperwork. These changes go into effect February 1, 2026, and neighbors on SNAP have until May 1, 2026, to meet these requirements or receive an exemption.

The event will offer both SNAP recipients and local organizations critical information on the changes, as well as opportunities to network and connect so area SNAP recipients can fulfill the federal government’s work or volunteer requirement.

A regular weekly hot meal will be provided by Friendship Community Place directly before the event, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact Rep. LaPointe’s District Office at info@replapointe.com or call (773) 647-1174. 

CHICAGO –  State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago), Chair of the House Mental Health & Addiction Committee, issued the following statement in response to news that the Trump Administration will terminate $2 billion in federal grants that support mental health, including addiction, homelessness and behavioral care services:

“This morning brought devastating news for families and behavioral health providers across Illinois. Nearly $2 billion in funding that supports mental health and addiction services has been immediately terminated, wiping out thousands of grants that keep people alive and stable throughout our communities, and putting hundreds of health and human service jobs at risk,” said LaPointe. “Without these life saving healthcare dollars, consequences will be felt immediately— front line crisis response, overdose prevention, naloxone distribution and basic mental health support up in smoke. And without these services, providers and families face an impossible choice: scaling back services, closing doors, and leaving patients with few options. With Medicaid under siege through HR1 — our biggest funder of mental health and addiction treatment, the impact of these immediate grant terminations will be severe. I’m appalled at this destructive, unilateral action when there is bipartisan and data-driven consensus that we are in a mental health crisis.” 

On Tuesday evening the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced the termination of close to $2 billion in funding, affecting around 2,800 grants for programs across the country. In Illinois, a series of programs at both big and small non-profit and government behavioral health providers have been eliminated. According to SAMSHA, providers will receive no compensation for expenses incurred after the termination date. 

“I am committed to both speaking out and tangible policy and budget responses here at home in Illinois. If we do not act now, our communities will pay the price as so many already have due to historical stigma and underfunding. As the spring legislative session begins, I will be laser-focused alongside behavioral health advocates and providers to preserve these lifelines.” 

CHICAGO – Chair of the House Mental Health and Addiction Committee, state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago), led a group of state behavioral health leaders in a visit to Trinity Services in Orland Park last Thursday.

During a tour and in-depth discussion with staff and former clients, the group learned about Trinity Service’s crisis prevention program — The Living Room — a free, peer-led service that connects those experiencing behavioral health crises with resources and support, often in lieu of 911, jail or a hospital. In addition to executive branch leaders, state Rep. Justin Slaughter (D- Chicago), who represents parts of Orland Park, joined the group, as well as state Rep. Laura Faver Dias (D-Grayslake) who serves on the House Mental Health Committee.

“Those seeking support for mental health crises are too often directed to hospitals or emergency room settings and subsequently discharged without a pathway to follow up care and real help — which creates a cycle of repeat ER visits and unresolved mental health trauma,” said LaPointe. “The Living Room corks this dangerous cycle by providing peer-led recovery and professional counseling to ensure those who need help most are connected to resources in a non-stigmatized setting while avoiding sustained law enforcement intervention.”

The Living Room at Trinity Services has locations in Joliet and Orland Park and is an alternative to an emergency room or inpatient hospital stays for the surrounding areas. Trinity currently works with nine local police departments. Those experiencing a mental health crisis can connect with multiple support groups and access one-on-one appointments with Recovery Support Specialist staff. Other services, such as peer case management, recovery guidance, hospital transitions, benefit assistance, and crisis prevention are also offered. Resources at the Living Room are available at no cost and locations are open 24/7, in person and online — so support is always within reach.

“At The Living Room, we welcome individuals and families into a space free of judgment, pressure, or stigma. Our peer specialists offer the kind of understanding that comes from lived experience — so much so that many simply call us ‘The Loving Room.’ We’re here 24/7 with hope, connection, and guidance, to both families and individuals needing support, whenever it’s needed,” said Living Room Director Patricia Johnstone.

State leaders, including legislators, have been working to build out a three-pronged crisis response system in every corner of Illinois.

The burgeoning system includes first, “A Place to Call” which is 988, a universal national suicide and crisis lifeline. Second, “Someone to Come”, if needed, which in most communities is mobile crisis response, consisting of trained and licensed mental health providers to come “on scene” to support someone in crisis when needed and wanted. Third, and finally, “A Place to Go” is a place where someone in crisis can go to de-escalate, stabilize and recover — not jail or a hospital. Most communities in Illinois have no options for “A Place to Go.” The Living room at Trinity Services is unique and deserving of both public awareness and celebration.

For more information, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or 773-647-1174. To connect with The Living Room at Trinity Services, email Scott Dunnell at sdunnell@trinityservices.org.

DECATUR, Ill. – Continuing the work to improve mental health and addiction recovery support in every corner of Illinois, House Mental Health & Addiction Committee Chair state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago) is highlighting a recent visit to Heritage Behavioral Health Center in Decatur last Thursday.

A central Illinois leader in both size and quality, Heritage offers comprehensive community- based services in mental health, substance use, and primary care to anyone, anytime, anywhere. The non-profit relies on Medicaid, state dollars and other funding sources to run a full array of life-saving care options. The visit and discussion covered the central role Medicaid plays in access to care and the dire need to maintain services in the face of recent federal actions, such as Medicaid cuts.

“For seven decades Heritage Behavioral Health has been a haven for struggling children and adults. More recently, the organization has taken up or expanded new models like the 24/7 Living Room and the Certified Behavioral Health Clinic model (CCBHC) through both state and federal funding. Both allow for stigma-busting, integrated, and high quality services for anyone who walks in the door,” said LaPointe. “By prioritizing stabilization, recovery, one-on-one care, and integration with physical healthcare, Heritage proves that those experiencing mental illness or substance use should not and cannot be blindly thrown behind bars or denied access to lifesaving services. When it comes to mental health and addiction, people need care on par with physical healthcare, and Heritage has stepped up to deliver.”

Both in and outside of the CCBHC, Heritage provides critical access to care through its mobile crisis teams, crisis call center, Behavioral Health Urgent Care Hub, and substance use treatment to ensure guests’ needs are met the moment they need help.

The center was recently awarded a $43.8 million Capital Development Board grant for a new “one-stop shop campus” to expand services as a CCBHC in its Decatur location. Heritage Behavioral Health Center’s Clinton (Dewitt County) campus has recently taken steps to become a CCBHC as well, ensuring the continuation of behavioral and addiction services for Illinois patients as the federal government increases its threats to cut Medicaid and strip millions from essential care.

“I want to thank Representative LaPointe and Deputy Director Darius McKinney from the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery within the Illinois Department of Human Services for visiting Heritage this week and the great conversations,” said Mary Garrison, president and chief executive officer at Heritage Behavioral Health Center. “It is an honor to have their support as we continue to provide essential services to our community and ensure access to care for all.”

For more information, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or 773-647-1174.

CHICAGO, Ill.– A bill connecting children and teens to mental health support spearheaded by state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, became law Thursday guaranteeing universal mental health screenings for public school students grades 3 through 12.

“No child should have to struggle in silence, especially in our public school system. This bill is a proactive step toward making sure we can integrate early detection, because too often warning signs are missed or dismissed, and kids fall through the cracks,” said LaPointe. “I’m proud to work alongside our state’s behavioral healthcare advocates, including our Children’s Behavioral Health Officer, to ensure our public schools have the tools to connect students and families with real support — early and directly.”

LaPointe’s Senate Bill 1560 will require Illinois public schools to offer age-appropriate, confidential mental health screenings to proactively identify mental health concerns and link students with necessary support. Designed with families in mind, the bill includes a parental opt-out provision, protects student privacy, and offers public school districts free access to screening tools.

The law will go into effect at the start of the 2027-2028 public school year.

For more information, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or 773-647-1174.

CHICAGO, Ill.– Highlighting key measures passed during the spring legislative session and unfinished business, state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, will host an end-of-session legislative town hall in collaboration with state Sen. Rob Martwick, D-Chicago, on Tuesday, June 24th from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Irish American Heritage Center (4626 N Knox Avenue) in Chicago.

“Neighbors across the far Northwest Side are invited to this community-focused discussion of the major decisions made in Springfield this year, including new laws and the state budget” said LaPointe. “It’s been a consequential year, and the growing federal instability makes our state policy decisions even more important. Hosting conversations with residents grounds our work so I’m pleased to convene this town hall alongside Senator Martwick to reflect on where we are and refocus on the work that lies ahead.”

“We look forward to an open, honest, and civil discussion about the issues facing Illinois, the progress we made on addressing those problems, and the work that lies ahead.” said Martwick.

Food from local businesses will be provided. To RSVP for this event, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or call 773-647-1174.

WHO: State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, state Sen. Rob Martwick
WHAT: End-of-Session Legislative Town Hall
WHERE: The Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N Knox Ave., Chicago
WHEN: Tuesday, June 24th, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
WHY: To highlight and discuss key issues from the spring legislative session