Joliet has received a $1 million federal grant aimed at connecting residents to counseling and support services through coordinated referrals. This funding is part of over $3.17 million in federal grants designated for various Will County programs, which include initiatives in childcare, nursing education, substance abuse treatment, and university research, according to a news release from U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-Naperville).
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The grant for Joliet will support a no-cost mental health program designed to enhance access to care for the community. Additionally, Childcare Resource and Referral in Joliet has been awarded $1,946,280 from the Office of Head Start at the Department of Health and Human Services. This funding aims to provide high-quality, full-day childcare for low-income working families, helping infants and toddlers develop and transition into Head Start and preschool programs.
Furthermore, Lewis University in Romeoville has received $103,401 from the Health Resources and Services Administration to support its nursing program. This funding, part of the Nurse Faculty Loan Program, will assist in providing low-interest loans and loan cancellations for nursing students who become faculty members, thereby addressing the nationwide shortage of qualified nursing educators.
Will County also secured $125,000 in federal funding to enhance substance abuse treatment and recovery services, aimed at mitigating the effects of alcohol and drug abuse on individuals and families. These funds are managed through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control within HHS.