Prairie State Wire

The Pritzker administration has initiated a multi-agency effort to enhance support for Highland Park and nearby areas following the July 4 tragedy. The initiative involves collaboration between state agencies, local organizations, and volunteers to provide mental health and social services.

The Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) has directed HealthChoice Illinois Medicaid Managed Care Organizations to offer crisis counseling and mental health support. Additionally, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is mobilizing mental health professionals from its network to aid recovery efforts.

A Resource Navigation Center has been established at Lincoln Elementary School in Highland Park. It operates on an appointment basis to connect individuals with necessary services. The center is staffed by volunteers from various organizations, including HealthChoice Illinois Managed Care Organizations. The Lake County Health Department Mobile Crisis Unit and Family Service of Lake County are also providing support.

Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of unified support, stating, "Unifying our state and local supports for survivors of the July 4th tragedy in Highland Park is a crucial step in helping residents heal." HFS Director Theresa Eagleson highlighted the commitment to mental wellness: "Mental and emotional wellness for the entire state is a priority for the Pritzker administration."

Additional services are available at the Highwood Library & Community Center through IDHS's Office of Welcoming Centers for Refugee and Immigrant Services. These include bilingual counseling, immigration legal services, public benefits application sign-up, emergency monetary aid, and interpretation services.

State Sen. Julie Morrison expressed gratitude for the resources provided by Governor Pritzker's administration: "The community of Highland Park...continues to be in great need of a variety of services." State Rep. Bob Morgan noted that additional human services resources are essential as community needs evolve post-tragedy.

Dulce Ortiz from Mano-A-Mano Family Resource Center stressed the importance of including marginalized families: "Lifting up and including families who are often marginalized is crucial in the aftermath of tragedy."

Samantha Olds Frey from the Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans praised the collaborative efforts: "Our members did not hesitate to corral their teams to help staff the support center."

Efforts continue with HFS and IDHS working alongside local partners to accelerate enrollment in childcare, nutrition benefits, and Medicaid programs. Services at the center are accessible to all residents affected by the tragedy.