SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to ensure equitable and affordable housing in Illinois, State Senator Adriane Johnson supported a measure to increase the Rental Housing Support Program’s budget.  

“In today’s climate many people are struggling to meet basic necessities such as monthly rent,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “It’s imperative that we funnel funding back into our communities through programs such as Illinois Rental Housing Support Program in order to better assist our neighbors in meeting those needs.

Since 2005, the Rental Housing Support Program has provided rental assistance to households by subsidizing rental apartments and homes. As a participant in this program, a family with limited economic resources only has to pay 30% of their rent when living in complexes who are partnered with RHSP, with RHSP paying the remainder to the landlord. RHSP paying the difference allows families to live in affordable homes and helps them from experiencing poverty. The increase in funding will ensure the continued success of this program.

In addition the measure also creates the Illinois Rental Housing Support Program Funding Allocation Task Force to study and provide solutions on the matter of the equitable distribution of rental housing support funds throughout the state.

“Working families and those on fixed incomes deserve to have affordable homes,” said Johnson. “I believe this will be an improvement and provide relief for many Illinois households.”

House Bill 3878 passed the Senate Friday and now heads to the governor for consideration.

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following statement after hearing of the tragic loss of a Buffalo Grove family:

“The unfortunate loss of the Kisliak family in Buffalo Grove is devastating. My heart is heavy and I am deeply saddened.

“When tragedies like this happen in our community, we have to be there to support one another. My heart goes out to the family’s loved ones, friends and neighbors. Our community is strong and we can lean on each other during this difficult time.”

BUFFALO GROVE – As daylight saving time ends this weekend, State Senator Adriane Johnson is reminding Illinois residents to test, inspect expiration dates, change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and replace any broken or expired devices.

In 2014-2018, the National Fire Protection Association reports almost three out of every five home fire deaths in the U.S. resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms.

“Fires can happen in the blink of an eye and result in abrupt, tragic loss,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Proper preparation can be pertinent to survival and fire prevention.”

BUFFALO GROVE – In her efforts to support continued education and youth programs, State Senator Adriane Johnson was recently honored alongside State Rep. Rita Mayfield in advocating more than $2 million in grant funding for two YouthBuild Lake County programs.

YouthBuild Lake County in North Chicago and Youth Conservation Corps in Waukegan provide programs to assist youth ages 17-24 in further developing education and trade skills. The programs offer High School diploma attainment, career readiness and life skills support, and construction training.

“While the construction workforce expands in Illinois, it is imperative that diversity and representation is included in the process,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “I want women and people of color to be encouraged to step into this career path knowing that YouthBuild is dedicated to ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed.”

Senator Johnson assisted YouthBuild Lake County’s efforts in securing $1 million in Capital improvement funds and over $200,000 for program expansion and enrollment. Both YouthBuild Lake County and Youth Conservation Corps are a part of the Illinois YouthBuild Coalition, comprised of 15 YouthBuild programs throughout the state. The funding will open new opportunities for many in the community and state wide.

“This funding will help give our youth the courage they need to pursue their dreams without limitations,” said Johnson. “I want women and people of color to know there are no limits to their success, and encourage them to pursue a job in fields where they are underrepresented.”

Learn more about YouthBuild Lake County visit here.