This week Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie filed legislation to protect funding for essential programs that deliver meals to senior citizens in need. Meal delivery programs, like Meals on Wheels, have experienced recent funding delays putting their services in jeopardy. Leader McCombie’s newly filed legislation, HB5911, seeks to address that issue by driving additional state resources where they are needed most by providing meals to seniors across Illinois.
The legislative measure appropriates $25,000,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department on Aging for the Home Delivered Meals Program by diverting funding from the Department of Human Services for Illinois Welcoming Centers.
“We have a responsibility to care for the senior citizens who’ve contributed so much to our communities,” said Leader McCombie. “Programs like Meals on Wheels are a lifeline for many seniors, ensuring they receive nutritious meals and regular wellness checks. As our state grapples with the increasing demands on resources due to the ongoing migrant crisis, we must ensure feeding and supporting our most vulnerable residents first. This legislation reflects that commitment and priority.”
The bill has a growing list of sponsors and will move through the legislative process in the Illinois House of Representatives for further consideration.