JOLIET - State Senator Rachel Ventura announced that three schools in the 43rd District received grants to enhance wildlife habitat on their grounds.

“The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant program is a wonderful project that teaches Illinois’ future generations about the importance of native Illinois plants and how they can benefit wildlife and the planet,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This resource will not only teach the importance of pollinator gardens but also help children discover the lifelong joys that come with gardening and helping the environment.”

Seventeen Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grants totaling more than $55,200 have been awarded for habitat development at schools and other public places through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Conservation Foundation.

The following projects were recipients of the grant in the 43rd District:

• Wilco Area Career Center, Romeoville, 11th and 12th grade, butterfly garden – $1,306
• Elwood CCSD #203, Elwood, 5th through 8th grade, pollinator garden – $1,841
• Joliet Public Library, Joliet, kindergarten through 12th grade, standard pollinator garden – $1,580

JOLIET– State Senator Rachel Ventura will be offering free protective glasses to view the upcoming total solar eclipse.

“This is an exciting opportunity for all Illinoisans as we are one of thirteen states with the best view,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I encourage everyone to be cautious of their surroundings and not block roadways to take pictures during the event.”

The last total solar eclipse was seven years ago in 2017, and on April 8 it will be visible again. It’s set to be the longest totality on land for over a decade and spans over 128 miles of Illinois. The next total solar eclipse visible in the United States won't be until 2044.

CREST HILL — State Senator Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet) released the following statement after the governor announced a plan for transformative capital investments in Illinois Department of Corrections facilities:

“There is no reason incarcerated individuals should be subjected to a facility that lacks basic human necessities — from clean water to outdoor recreational space. The quality of life at the Stateville prison is beyond repair. It’s imperative we build a new facility — but we must do so in a way that takes into account the needs of its residents, their loved ones and workers.

“Employees of Stateville have made Will County their home. A just transition must be put forward to ensure not a single job is lost. Further, conversations must be had to ensure families of incarcerated individuals have a feasible way to see their loved ones — be that an option to zoom or transportation services. It’s imperative we keep people as close to their families as possible.

“I will be monitoring the situation closely and working with state officials to ensure a fair and just transition plan is implemented. All stakeholders — from employees to families — should have a seat at the table to put forth tangible solutions to safeguard jobs and the humanity of incarcerated individuals.”

SPRINGFIELD – School has become increasingly stressful for students, leading State Senator Rachel Ventura to spearhead legislation that would help students across Illinois reduce anxiety and focus on their physical and emotional needs during school time.

“We have to emphasize the importance of having a balance between productivity and self-care within the context of education,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This instills a mindset in our young people that encourages both academic achievement and the well-being of their mental health.”