AROUND THE DISTRICT
Our District 105 Offices were overflowing with teddy bears this week – literally! Because of the generosity of heartfelt donors and volunteers, Cuddles with Kindness partners collected over 5,000 stuffed friends to bring comfort, joy, and big smiles to young patients in our hospitals on Valentine’s Day 2025! 
This incredible mission was inspired by Taylor Larson, who spent nine days in the hospital as a child. On Valentine’s Day, she received a teddy bear that changed her life. Each year, she pays that kindness forward by delivering thousands of cuddly friends to children who need them most. This is the 16th year for the Cuddles with Kindness program and TEAM TIPSWORD’S second year participating!
Learn more about Cuddles with Kindness here: Cuddles with Kindness | Teddy Bear Drive | Central Illinois
GRANTS
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is accepting applications from eligible local governments and nonprofit organizations to participate in the state’s Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP).
Through this program, IHDA will provide funding to approved agencies who will then provide grants to low-income homeowners to make health and safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency repairs to their homes.
Applications will be accepted through March 14. HRAP program information and the application can be found here: Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP) Round 2 Grantee Application
Illinois producers looking to enhance the management of natural resources on their operation are encouraged to apply for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) by Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. EQIP, offered through the Illinois Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), supports producers in addressing critical natural resource challenges on their farms.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program – Illinois | Natural Resources Conservation Service
AWARDS
Applications are now open for the 2024-25 Outstanding Collegiate Chapter Award from the Illinois Farm Bureau. The Chapter Award is designed to recognize Collegiate Farm Bureau chapters that actively implement the mission and goals of the Illinois Collegiate Farm Bureau as they set and execute their chapter specific goals each year.
Learn more here: 2025 Outstanding Collegiate Chapter Award
FIREARMS
An Illinois judge has ruled the state’s Firearm Owner’s Identification law is unconstitutional when used against someone who owns a gun in their own home.
SENIOR HALL OF FAME
The Illinois Department on Aging is seeking nominations for the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Learn more here: Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame
BUDGET ADDRESS
The governor will deliver the combined Budget and State of the State Address next Wednesday at noon. This year, House Republicans call for no new taxes, no tax hikes, and a responsible, balanced budget that prioritizes the needs of Illinois citizens.
MADIGAN VERDICT
In the wake of the Madigan verdict, Democrats would do well to remember that actions speak louder than words. They can put out statements all they want, but until they put votes on the board for ethics reform, their sentiments toward their ex-boss ring hollow.
Illinois lawmakers react to Madigan corruption verdict | WGLT