SPRINGFIELD – All educators, including substitute teachers, will be more prepared for emergencies starting Jan. 1, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel requiring training in evacuation and lockdown procedures prior to being in the classroom.

“Substitute teachers only work certain days in a school so they are less likely to know what the protocols are when lock down or evacuation drills occur,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Full-time teachers receive training on all emergency protocols, and substitute teachers should receive the same.”

The Loughran Cappel law requires school districts in Illinois to provide training to all substitute teachers on school evacuation drills and law enforcement lockdown drills. Additionally, all substitutes will be given the same information as full-time employees outlining all lockdown and evacuation procedures, and maps will be required to be displayed in every classroom showing all school exit points.

“When we drop our kids off at school, we expect them to return at the end of the day,” said Loughran Cappel. “With this new law, you can have peace of mind knowing the person teaching your child will know exactly what to do in a crisis situation.”

House Bill 1787 takes effect Jan. 1.

To give back to the community, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel and State Representative Natalie Manley have teamed up with local elected officials to host a free holiday turkey and ham giveaway.

“Now more than ever, we need to give back to our communities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “It’s important to provide a little more security in the form of a warm meal to those who need it most this season. Events like these truly showcase the spirit of the holidays.”

The free event will be held at the Romeoville Village Hall parking lot, located at 1050 W. Rodeo Rd. on Thursday, Dec. 18 from 4-5:30 p.m. or while supplies last. The giveaway will be conducted drive-through style and one turkey or ham will be provided per household.

CREST HILL —  State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is teaming up with State Representatives Natalie Manley and Dee Avelar to host a food and essential items drive to support local families in need.

“Between the federal lapse in food assistance and the rising cost of everyday essentials, we know people are looking for ways to support their neighbors who are struggling to put food on the table right now,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I encourage those who are eager to help to consider giving back as we approach the holiday season. Your generosity will be a lifeline for families who are stretched thin right now.”

Community members can drop off baby products, dry, nonperishable foods, hygiene products and other items to Loughran Cappel’s district office at 20660 Caton Farm Rd., Unit D, in Crest Hill or at any of the participating offices during regular business hours. The drive is open now and will continue indefinitely.

Items in need include rice, cereal and oatmeal, beans, canned goods, deodorant, paper towels, toilet paper, diapers and baby formula. For a full list of food and hygiene items needed, click here.

SNAP benefits have been halted as of Nov. 1, leaving children, seniors and working families without the resources they need to put food on the table. Loughran Cappel’s food drive will benefit these families, ensuring a lifeline is available to support them during this time.

For more information, people can call Loughran Cappel’s office at 815-267-6119.

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.