“The state has provided over $343 million in assistance to more than 289,000 families since launching the Help for Illinois Families program last June. Pritzker says the law will help even more people receive assistance as the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity starts a new program with LIHEAP funds in September.

‘Who wants their government to work for everybody and not just a privileged few?’ asked Rep. Barbara Hernandez (D-Aurora). ‘This law will not just keep people healthy and comfortable. Once again, it will save lives.’

Paying for utilities is a struggle for many people like Donna Carpenter. The Englewood native has fought as a member of the Community Organizing and Family Issues organization since 2006.

‘I know what it is to be without light, heat, gas, all of that. I’ve been there and I’ve done that,’ Carpenter explained. ‘So, I just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. This is gonna help a lot of people.’”

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