KANKAKEE – Thanks to strong support from State Senator Patrick Joyce, the Kankakee area received a combined total of $1.59 million from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue ongoing improvements.

“Investing in our local parks and community centers always seems to pay dividends,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “These are places that bring communities closer together and make residents proud to call their city home.”

OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $675 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

KANKAKEE – To show appreciation and lift the spirits of local seniors, State Senator Patrick Joyce is collecting cards for residents in long-term care facilities for Valentine’s Day.

“Making a handful of cards won’t take much time and will mean the world to someone in our community,” said Joyce (D-Essex).  “It is just a little something to let these folks know we are always thinking about them.”

Joyce is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely during Valentine’s Day. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Feb. 6 to Joyce’s office at 179 S. Wall St. Kankakee, IL 60901. For in-person card deliveries, schedule an appointment with Joyce’s office by calling 708-756-0882 for drop off times and information.

KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce is highlighting the announced $24 million in funding to expand Manufacturing Training Academies at community colleges and strengthen workforce training opportunities for high-demand manufacturing careers.

“Young people are desperate for new career opportunities, and training programs give them a path to follow,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “In my district, Kankakee Community College is already proving how community colleges can connect students to good-paying manufacturing careers with their top tier Manufacturing and Industrial Technology Center program.”

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois farmers have lost thousands of dollars’ worth of crops due to nuisance deer without the proper means to deal with them effectively. That will change come Jan. 1, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Patrick Joyce giving farmers the ability to protect their crops before they are damaged.

“As a farmer, I’ve seen firsthand the damage nuisance deer can have on crop yields,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This law will take a huge weight off of farmers across the entire state.”