State Senator Terri Bryant, in collaboration with Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc., has distributed free turkeys to several community volunteer organizations across the 58th Senate District. This initiative aims to assist Southern Illinois residents in need during the Thanksgiving holiday. On November 18, Senator Bryant delivered these turkeys to organizations in Mt. Vernon, Mt. Carmel, Fairfield, and Sesser.
Meridian Health provided all the turkeys at no cost. The organization offers managed care services for government-sponsored programs targeting families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex medical needs. Senator Bryant emphasized that this gesture is about more than providing food; it is an opportunity for families to engage in holiday traditions.
The conclusion of the General Assembly’s Veto Session saw few legislative measures passing through either chamber. With a projected budget deficit exceeding $3 billion next fiscal year, Republican legislators attribute this shortfall partly to increased state spending backed by temporary federal funds. They also point out initiatives such as free healthcare for noncitizens as contributing factors.
Senator Bryant calls on Governor Pritzker to balance the upcoming budget without further tax increases. She stresses that many Illinoisans are already struggling financially and cannot bear additional burdens.
As winter approaches, heating costs are expected to rise in Illinois compared to last year due to colder temperatures predicted by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Natural gas bills could increase by $10 to $15 monthly depending on various factors like home size and thermostat settings.
Residents can mitigate these costs by sealing drafts and using programmable thermostats or applying for assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
A new process now allows Illinois workers to claim unpaid wages via I-CASH thanks to a partnership between the State Treasurer’s Office and the Department of Labor (IDOL). Unclaimed wages will be transferred after three years if workers remain unlocated.
Thanksgiving dinner costs have risen significantly since before the pandemic despite lower turkey prices this year due mainly due rising overall food prices up 25% since 2019 according USDA data . However , consumers may find savings through special deals offered by retailers .
Safety remains paramount during Thanksgiving celebrations whether cooking at home or traveling . The National Fire Protection Association warns against common kitchen hazards while urging drivers prepare adequately given high travel volumes expected nationwide .
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