Let it Be Us Foster Care & Adoption 101

In partnership with Let It Be Us and Senator Darby Hills, my office invites you to attend a free, informative Foster Care & Adoption 101 Seminar on Saturday, Jan. 31 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Libertyville Civic Center, located at 135 W Church St. in Libertyville.

This seminar is designed to help individuals and families learn how they can make a meaningful difference for children in Illinois foster care. 

Attendees will hear from knowledgeable guest speakers about the various types of foster care available in Lake County and surrounding areas, such as, emergency, specialized, traditional and therapeutic foster care.

You will also learn what each pathway entails, what supports are available, and how Let It Be Us can guide you through your fostering or adoption journey.

Whether you are just beginning to explore fostering or adoption, or you are ready to take the next step, this session will give you the knowledge and support to get started. 

Learn more and register for the event here.

Edly-Allen-backed Dillon’s Law prepares communities to act on allergic reactions starting Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Food Allergy Research & Education organization, 33 million Americans have a food allergy, with the most common allergies including milk, tree nuts, shellfish and peanuts. To help those having an allergic reaction, Illinoisans will soon have easier access to epinephrine under a new law championed by State Senator Mary Edly-Allen and House Assistant Majority Leader Maurice West.

“Dillon’s Law is common-sense legislation that helps our communities become better equipped to help someone experiencing an allergic reaction,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “If a person does not know they have an allergy, they may not have access to epinephrine, which is why this law could help save so many lives.”

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Illinois Drug Reuse Program strengthened under new Edly-Allen law on Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD – Nationally, an estimated $2.8 billion worth of medications are wasted annually. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen partnered with State Representative Laura Faver Dias to champion a new law to provide Illinoisans with cheaper alternatives and transparency within the Illinois Drug Reuse Program.

“Medications can be ridiculously expensive, often leaving people to decide between rent, groceries or their life-saving medicine,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “This law is critical to helping our most vulnerable communities and improves a well-established program that has helped countless Illinoisans.”

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Edly-Allen law creates certified therapy dog crisis response program on Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD – The use of therapy dogs to aid people struggling with PTSD and anxiety has steadily increased nationwide, with over 50,000 therapy dogs in service today. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen championed a law that will increase the number of therapy dogs available during times of crisis come Jan. 1.

“Therapy dogs have the ability to help reduce stress-induced trauma, bringing instant comfort and relief,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “This law will improve officer wellness and make certified therapy K-9s more accessible to help those in a time of need.”

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