CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Everyday people rely on SNAP benefits which serve as a vital lifeline to keep food on the table," said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "It’s time to put politics aside. Families across Illinois will go hungry because of a political gridlock. Urgent action is needed."

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 22,375 people in the district Loughran Cappel represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Loughran Cappel stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

Loughran Cappel is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance.

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel secured over $34 million to build and repair infrastructure in the 49^th Senate District.

“When we invest in our roads, we increase safety, bring more jobs and boost the local economy throughout our communities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Our commitment to invest in everyday infrastructure continues to better the lives of residents across the state. Drivers deserve safe, reliable roads and that’s what they will see with these strong investments.”

The largest multi-year program to build and repair infrastructure in state history will invest $50.6 billion over six years, continuing an unprecedented investment in safety, mobility and quality of life made possible by the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program. The Illinois Department of Transportation’s new multi-year program is both comprehensive and multimodal, with investments in roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations touching every Illinois county.

PLAINFIELD – To celebrate and honor those who served our country, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is hosting a veterans appreciation breakfast event ahead of the Veterans Day holiday.

“People who put their lives on hold in service of something greater than themselves deserve our thanks and recognition,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Every day we benefit from the sacrifices and hard work of our veterans. This event serves as a small token of appreciation for our local heroes, while helping them connect with others who have served and providing them an opportunity to learn more about programs and services that are available to assist them.”

BOLINGBROOK – Local residents are invited to join State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel to chat over a cup of coffee on Oct. 21, where she will have open dialogue about how she can best serve the area.

“As a state senator, I work diligently to be available, answer questions and listen to concerns from local residents,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I enjoy sitting down with a cup of coffee to hear directly from constituents and share resources that are available.”

The free event will be held Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Fountaindale Public Library, located at 300 W. Briarcliff Road in Bolingbrook.

Loughran Cappel regularly hosts coffee and chat events, which serve as open forums for community members to share their concerns and talk with the senator about state issues. Coffee will be provided for attendees.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact Loughran Cappel’s Crest Hill office at 815-267-6119 or visit her website at www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com.