
HOMEWOOD – State Senator Napoleon Harris III announced the Illinois Workforce Pell, a new program expanding on the federal Pell Grant by allowing eligible students to use grant funding for short-term workforce training programs aligned with in-demand occupations, is now accepting applications.
“Illinois Workforce Pell will expand opportunities for career training and education for residents in the 15th District,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “This funding gives residents the ability to develop and build skills in jobs in high demand, and I am proud to support a program that continues to build talent here in Illinois.”
By extending Pell eligibility to shorter-term programs, Workforce Pell broadens access to a more affordable path to a recognized credential, tied to employer-validated, high-skill, high-wage or in-demand jobs across the state. Illinois developed a rigorous approval process to ensure participating programs meet high standards for quality, workforce alignment and student outcomes – protecting students while ensuring public investments support credentials with strong labor market value.
HOMEWOOD – State Senator Napoleon Harris III announced 26 public libraries and school districts across the 15th District are set to receive more than $560,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.
“Public libraries are one of the few places where every person can walk through the doors and access knowledge, opportunity and community without cost,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “These grants help ensure libraries in every corner of Illinois have the resources they need to keep shelves stocked, expand access to technology and continue serving as trusted community anchors for families, students, job seekers and lifelong learners.”
More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding will support libraries’ investments in reading materials, technology, literacy programs, infrastructure improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.
HOMEWOOD – State Senator Napoleon Harris III is hosting a recycling, shredding, drug and electronic take-back event free to the public this Saturday, June 27.
“This is a good opportunity to do some summer cleaning and de-clutter while recycling and being mindful of waste,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “This is a program that is free for all to come out and securely recycle the things that are taking up too much space at home or the office.”
The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place Saturday, June 27 from 10 a.m. to noon at 930 W. 175th St. in Homewood.
Accepted items include laptops and desktops, fax machines, printers and televisions (limited to one per household), as well as cables, calculators, cellphones and computer hardware.

HOMEWOOD – Building on his strong commitment to public safety, State Senator Napoleon Harris III secured nearly $30,000 for local fire protection districts to help with purchasing new equipment or paying for fire training.
“No matter what Illinois community our residents call home, their safety matters, and they deserve access to reliable emergency fire services,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “These grants will help fire departments buy the equipment and resources they need to keep residents safe.”
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