📬 Welcome to Our August Newsletter
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Hello Everyone,
August was a month filled with community, connection, service, celebration, health, opportunity, and purpose. Throughout the month, I had the privilege of spending time with residents, community organizations, elected officials, entrepreneurs, families, and young people across the 3rd District and Cook County. Whether we were discussing access to essential resources, supporting local businesses, celebrating our rich cultural history, or simply enjoying time together as a community, each experience reinforced why showing up and staying connected matters.
In this issue, we look back at some of the memorable moments that made August so special. We celebrate the 97th Annual Bud Billiken Parade and continue our march along the Road to 100. We revisit our important Medicaid and SNAP Town Hall at St. Sabina, where residents connected with information and resources to help protect their healthcare and food assistance. We also highlight the inspiring work of Committed Knitters, whose handmade creations demonstrate how compassion and service can touch lives throughout Cook County.
Economic opportunity and community investment were also at the forefront this month. At the 2026 Pathways to Cook County Summit, entrepreneurs and business owners connected with resources designed to help them pursue contracting, procurement, certification, and growth opportunities. We celebrated the energy and renaissance of South Shore at the South Shore Summer Festival, explored the history and legacy of Historic West Woodlawn with Black in Green, and continued emphasizing the importance of prevention and wellness following my visit to a health fair at Apostolic Church of God.
We also had the opportunity to celebrate and encourage our next generation at the 7th Annual Back-to-School Youth Basketball Tournament & Community Event, presented by the Foundation for Bryan A. Leach. Seeing our young people compete, laugh, have fun, and experience the support of their community was another reminder that investing in our youth is one of the greatest investments we can make in our collective future.
As we look ahead, we are also preparing for our Annual Men’s & Families’ Health & Resource Fair on September 24, where we will continue spreading a message that remains central to my work: Health is Wealth. Prevention, education, early detection, and access to trusted healthcare resources are essential to building healthier families and stronger communities.
Every event highlighted in this issue may have had a different purpose, but they all share a common thread: people coming together to strengthen our communities. From healthcare and economic opportunity to history, culture, youth engagement, and community service, August demonstrated what is possible when we listen, collaborate, invest, and show up for one another.
I invite you to enjoy this month’s newsletter as we reflect on where we have been, celebrate the people doing extraordinary work throughout our communities, and continue moving forward together.
Thank you for allowing me the continued privilege of serving you.
Sincerely,
Commissioner Bill Lowry
Cook County Commissioner, 3rd District
#TeamLowry #CookCounty #CommissionerBillLowry #MayNewsletter #ThirdDistrict
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Stay Informed. Stay Prepared.
Join Me for Our Medicaid & SNAP Town Hall
Understanding the Changes That Matter to You and Your Family
Dear Friends,
I invite you to join me for an important Town Hall Meeting focused on the upcoming changes to Medicaid and SNAP benefits and what they could mean for individuals, families, seniors, and our community.
Access to healthcare and nutritious food is essential to the well-being of every resident. As policies continue to change, it is important that our community has accurate information, trusted resources, and the opportunity to ask questions directly to knowledgeable professionals.
This Town Hall is designed to help residents better understand these changes, learn how they may be affected, and discover what resources and support are available. We will be joined by a panel of guest speakers and subject matter experts who will provide valuable information, answer your most pressing questions, and help guide you through these important updates.
Whether you currently receive Medicaid or SNAP benefits, have family members who do, or simply want to stay informed, I encourage you to attend. Your voice, your questions, and your participation are important as we work together to ensure our communities have the information they need.
Town Hall Details
Date: Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: St. Sabina Church, Downstairs Assembly Hall
1210 W. 78th Place
Chicago, IL 60620
I look forward to seeing you there and engaging in this important conversation. Together, we can ensure that our community remains informed, empowered, and prepared for the future.
Sincerely,
Commissioner Bill Lowry
Cook County Commissioner, Third District
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Important SNAP Benefit Changes
Impacting Cook County Residents
Cook County families are facing growing food insecurity as new federal SNAP policy changes begin taking effect in 2026. Currently, more than 1.4 million residents across Cook County struggle with access to affordable food, while nearly 882,000 individuals rely on SNAP benefits for daily support.
New federal requirements may impact eligibility for many residents, including updated work-reporting rules and changes affecting immigrant households. Beginning this year, some recipients may need to complete at least 80 hours of work, volunteer service, or job training each month to maintain benefits.
Residents are encouraged to act now by checking exemption eligibility, exploring free workforce training through Job Ready Illinois, and utilizing local food assistance resources. Individuals needing immediate food support can call 2-1-1 or visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository for nearby pantry locations and benefits assistance.
Help is available, and Cook County remains committed to connecting residents with the resources they need during this transition.
#SNAPBenefits #CookCounty #FoodAccess #TeamLowry #CommunitySupport
| | Celebrating the 97th Annual Bud Billiken Parade | |
The Road to 100: Honoring a Treasured Chicago Tradition
What an incredible day at the 97th Annual Bud Billiken Parade!
It was a joy to once again take part in one of Chicago’s most treasured traditions. From the moment we stepped onto the parade route, the energy and excitement throughout the community were undeniable. Families, neighbors, young people, elected officials, community leaders, dancers, marching bands, and generations of Chicagoans filled the streets in a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and community.
The cheers could be heard from every direction as children danced along the route, families gathered together, music filled the air, and the unmistakable aroma of summertime barbecue added to the celebration. Everywhere I looked, there were smiles, laughter, movement, and an extraordinary sense of pride.
That is what makes the Bud Billiken Parade so special. It is more than a parade—it is a celebration of our history, our culture, our young people, and the generations who continue to strengthen and uplift our communities.
I was especially grateful to share this memorable day with my wonderful wife, Cheryl. I also want to recognize my incredible team for their hard work, dedication, and continued commitment to serving the residents of Cook County’s 3rd District.
My deepest appreciation goes to Myiti Sengstacke-Rice and the entire Bud Billiken Parade team for carrying forward this extraordinary Chicago legacy and creating a celebration worthy of its remarkable history. For 97 years, the Bud Billiken Parade has brought generations together, and now we are proudly marching along the Road to 100!
I look forward to returning next year and, God willing, being there for every step of this historic journey toward the 100th Bud Billiken Parade.
Thank you, Chicago, for another unforgettable celebration. See you next year!
#BudBillikenParade #RoadTo100 #ChicagoPride #CommunityStrong #CookCounty
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Standing Together: Protecting
Healthcare and Food Assistance
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A Community Conversation at St. Sabina
On Tuesday, we came together at St. Sabina for an important community conversation centered on access, awareness, and support. I sincerely thank everyone who attended our Medicaid and SNAP Town Hall. Your questions, personal experiences, and willingness to stand together on behalf of your families and neighbors are powerful reminders of why public service matters.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Congresswoman Robin Kelly, Senator Mattie Hunter, Senator Robert Peters, Alderman Desmon Yancy, Alderman David Moore, Chicago Board of Education Representative Dr. Che “Rhymefest” Smith, the dedicated teams from Cook County Health and Dion’s Chicago Dream, and everyone who contributed to the success of this important gathering. I am especially grateful to Pastor Michael Pfleger and the entire St. Sabina family for opening their doors and providing a welcoming space where residents could receive information, ask questions, and connect with valuable resources.
Hundreds of thousands of Illinois residents depend on Medicaid and SNAP to access essential healthcare services and put nutritious food on their tables. As eligibility and redetermination requirements evolve, it is critical that residents understand the process, remain aware of important deadlines, and know where to turn for assistance. No family should lose essential benefits simply because they did not have access to the information they needed.
That is why community conversations like this are so important. They bring government and trusted community partners directly to the people, connecting residents with knowledgeable professionals, accurate information, and resources that can help them navigate complicated systems.
I have always believed that government works best when it meets people where they are. This Town Hall was about far more than policies, applications, and paperwork. It was about protecting our seniors, supporting working families, assisting neighbors with disabilities, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and thrive.
Thank you to everyone who continues to trust me to stand beside you and advocate on behalf of our communities. Together, we will continue working to ensure that every resident has access to the healthcare, food assistance, resources, and opportunities they deserve.
#CommissionerBillLowry #CommunityFirst #CookCounty #Medicaid #SNAP
| | Woven With Love, Purpose & Service |
Stitching Together a Stronger, More Caring Community
Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of learning more about the extraordinary women of Committed Knitters and the heartfelt mission behind their work. What begins as a simple strand of yarn is transformed, stitch by stitch, into something far greater—a meaningful expression of compassion, comfort, generosity, and hope.
These remarkable women generously dedicate their time and talents to creating handmade items that provide warmth and encouragement to veterans, mothers and babies, breast cancer survivors, families in need, and countless others throughout our communities. Every knitted or crocheted piece tells a story. Behind each creation are hours of patience, care, and loving hands working with one purpose: to remind someone that they are seen, valued, and never forgotten.
I was truly honored to spend time with these incredible women and witness their dedication firsthand. I was also delighted to be joined by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, whose continued support of organizations and initiatives that strengthen our communities helps reinforce the very fabric of Cook County.
Organizations like Committed Knitters demonstrate that service does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, making a difference begins with a strand of yarn, a pair of knitting needles, and a compassionate heart. An item made by hand can take on an entirely new meaning when it reaches someone experiencing hardship, illness, uncertainty, or simply a moment when a little extra comfort is needed.
I encourage everyone to learn more about Committed Knitters and the remarkable work these women continue to do. Their service reminds us that warmth is not only something we feel—it is something we can give.
To the ladies of Committed Knitters, thank you for welcoming me, for your generous spirits, and for every stitch made with love and purpose. Please keep knitting, keep giving, and keep wrapping our communities in compassion.
#CommittedKnitters55 #CookCounty #CommunityWithCompassion #ServiceWithLove #BillLowry
| Creating Pathways to Opportunity | |
Opening Doors: Building a Stronger
Future for Local Entrepreneurs
I had the pleasure of attending the 2026 Pathways to Cook County Summit, an inspiring gathering of entrepreneurs, business owners, community partners, and Cook County professionals united by one shared purpose: creating meaningful pathways to opportunity.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the Summit was witnessing the exchange of information, ideas, and resources throughout the day. Business owners asked important questions, established new connections, explored County resources, and gained valuable insight into contracting, procurement, certification, and future growth opportunities.
When I had the opportunity to address those in attendance, my message was clear: Cook County wants our businesses to succeed. We do not simply want businesses to exist within our communities—we want them to grow, create jobs, employ our residents, build generational wealth, and become trusted partners in strengthening Cook County's economy.
Recent severe weather and other challenges facing our communities have also reinforced the importance of having strong, prepared, and dependable local businesses. As our economic and community landscape continues to evolve, Cook County needs a diverse network of businesses equipped with the knowledge, capacity, experience, and resources necessary to respond to emerging needs and opportunities.
That is why events like the Pathways to Cook County Summit are so important. For an entrepreneur, sometimes the difference between remaining where you are and reaching the next level is access to the right information, the right introduction, or the right opportunity. Cook County can—and should—help provide that pathway.
I thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many talented, innovative, and determined entrepreneurs and business owners. I left the Summit inspired by their vision and encouraged by the connections being created throughout the day.
Thank you to everyone who organized, participated in, and attended this year's Summit. I look forward to seeing these new relationships develop into meaningful opportunities that strengthen businesses, families, and communities throughout Cook County.
The pathway is there. Let us continue opening doors, creating opportunities, and walking it together.
#PathwaysToCookCounty #CookCounty #SmallBusiness #EconomicOpportunity #BusinessGrowth
| | Celebrating the Spirit of South Shore | | |
Summer in South Shore:
A Celebration of Music, Pride & Community
South Shore is experiencing an exciting renaissance, and the energy, pride, and sense of possibility throughout the community are undeniable.
I had a wonderful time attending this year’s South Shore Summer Festival, an event that continues to bring residents together while showcasing the vibrant culture and spirit that make South Shore such a special community. From outstanding entertainment and talented performers, including renowned R&B artist Jon B., to the presence of community leaders such as 5th Ward Alderman Desmon Yancy, the festival offered an incredible day filled with music, fellowship, and celebration.
What made the experience especially meaningful was seeing families, neighbors, longtime residents, and friends gathering together to enjoy everything South Shore has to offer. The smiles, laughter, and excitement throughout the festival were a powerful reflection of a community that remains connected to its history while embracing a promising future.
Events like the South Shore Summer Festival are about much more than entertainment. They provide opportunities to strengthen relationships, support our neighborhoods, celebrate local culture, and remind us of the importance of creating spaces where residents can come together in fellowship and joy.
The transformation taking place throughout South Shore is evident, and I am encouraged by the continued investment, community engagement, and renewed energy helping move this historic neighborhood forward. South Shore’s greatest strength has always been its people, and that strength was on full display throughout the festival.
Thank you to everyone who worked tirelessly to make this year’s South Shore Summer Festival another memorable celebration. I truly enjoyed being part of the festivities and sharing such a wonderful day with the community.
I am already looking forward to next year and to continuing to celebrate the remarkable people, culture, and progress of South Shore!
#SouthShoreSummerFestival #SouthShoreRenaissance #CommunityStrong #ChicagoSummer #CookCounty
| | Discovering the History and Heart of West Woodlawn | | |
A Place of Pioneers: Celebrating the
History and Spirit of West Woodlawn
This past weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting Black in Green and touring Historic West Woodlawn: Place of Pioneers. It was an inspiring opportunity to experience the neighborhood from a unique perspective while learning more about the people, places, and stories that have helped shape this historic community.
Throughout the tour, I gained a deeper appreciation for West Woodlawn’s remarkable history and the important work being done to preserve its legacy while investing in its future. Most meaningful were the conversations with residents and community leaders who know, love, and remain deeply committed to the neighborhood. Their stories, experiences, and vision offered an invaluable perspective on both the history of West Woodlawn and the possibilities that lie ahead.
Experiences like this reinforce an important lesson about public service: some of the most meaningful work happens beyond the conference room. It happens when we walk through our neighborhoods, listen directly to residents, learn from their experiences, and take the time to understand the communities we have been entrusted to serve.
West Woodlawn is a community rich in history, resilience, innovation, and cultural significance. Preserving that history means more than remembering the past—it means ensuring that the stories of those who came before us continue to inform and inspire the generations that follow.
I extend my sincere appreciation to Black in Green for the warm welcome, the knowledge shared, and the meaningful conversations throughout my visit. I thoroughly enjoyed touring, listening, learning, and experiencing another chapter of the extraordinary history and enduring spirit of West Woodlawn.
Every neighborhood has a story, and when we take the time to listen, we gain a greater understanding of the people and places that make Cook County so special.
#BlackInGreen #HistoricWestWoodlawn #PlaceOfPioneers #CommunityConnections #CookCounty
| | Health Is Wealth: Making Wellness a Community Priority |
Health Is Wealth: Making Wellness a Community Priority
This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending a health fair at Apostolic Church of God, where I connected with community members, learned more about available health resources, and was once again reminded of the importance of making our health and well-being a priority.
I have long believed that Health is Wealth. Whether it is a health fair hosted by my office, a church, a community organization, or one of our many healthcare partners, I encourage everyone to attend, participate, ask questions, receive recommended screenings, and take advantage of the resources available. Every health and wellness event represents another opportunity to become better informed, take preventive action, and potentially identify a health concern before it becomes more serious.
As we prepare for our Annual Men’s & Families’ Health & Resource Fair, I want to continue spreading this message throughout our communities. Our commitment to health and wellness extends far beyond any single event. It is about creating a culture in which prevention, early detection, education, and caring for ourselves and our loved ones become part of our everyday lives.
Save the Date
📅 Thursday, September 24, 2026
⏰ 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 New Life Covenant Church Southeast
7621 S. Greenwood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619
Residents and families are encouraged to join us for an evening dedicated to health, wellness, education, and prevention. Attendees will have access to health screenings, fitness resources, mental health services, dental and vision resources, PSA screenings, neurological screenings, conversations with healthcare professionals, and much more.
I encourage everyone to take care of themselves and inspire someone they love to do the same. Attend health fairs throughout our communities, schedule your regular screenings, ask questions, and become an active participant in your healthcare journey. Knowledge, prevention, and early detection can make a tremendous difference.
Health is Wealth—and healthier people help build stronger families, stronger neighborhoods, and a stronger Cook County.
#HealthIsWealth #MensHealth #FamilyHealth #CommunityWellness #CommissionerBillLowry
| | Building Brighter Futures Through Community | |
Building Brighter Futures Through Community
What a wonderful time I had attending the 7th Annual Back-to-School Youth Basketball Tournament & Community Event, presented by the Foundation for Bryan A. Leach at O’Hoard Park!
There is something truly special about seeing our young people come together to compete, laugh, build friendships, and simply enjoy being kids. Events like this provide much more than recreation—they create positive and encouraging spaces where young people can develop confidence, experience teamwork, and know that their community is standing behind them.
I even had an opportunity to step onto the court myself, play a little basketball, and join in the fun. Moments like these are a wonderful reminder of what community is all about: showing up for one another, encouraging the next generation, strengthening relationships, and creating lasting memories for our children and families.
It was also a pleasure connecting with 5th Ward Alderman Desmon Yancy, Jim Capers, and the many community leaders, friends, families, and residents who came out to support and celebrate our young people. Seeing so many people gathered around a shared commitment to our youth demonstrated the strength and spirit that exist throughout our communities.
My sincere appreciation goes to the Foundation for Bryan A. Leach and everyone who dedicated their time, resources, and energy to making the 7th Annual event possible. Programs like this demonstrate what can happen when organizations, leaders, families, and residents work together to provide our children with opportunities to learn, grow, have fun, and thrive.
When we invest in our young people, we invest in the future of our neighborhoods and the future of Cook County. Every encouraging word, positive experience, mentorship opportunity, and safe community space can make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
I had a great time—and I may have even discovered that I still have a little basketball game left in me! 🏀
Building brighter futures takes all of us, and I am always proud to be part of a community that continues to show up for its young people.
#CommissionerBillLowry #CommunityStrong #SupportingOurYouth #BackToSchool2026 #BuildingBrighterFutures
| | 2025 Screening Success by the Numbers | |
Celebrate Your Birthday with the Gift of Health!
Cook County Health is giving the ultimate birthday gift – the gift of health! 🎉 Eligible Cook County residents can schedule free breast and prostate cancer screenings during their birthday month.
Here’s how it works:
✅ For Uninsured Residents: Screenings are provided at no cost.
✅ For Insured Residents: Screenings are billed to your insurance plan.
Who’s Eligible?
🩺 Breast Cancer Screening (Women, 40–74): Must not have had a mammogram in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.
🩺 Prostate Cancer Screening (Men, 45–69): Must not have had a prostate screening in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.
The Impact of Birthday Screenings
🎯 Mammograms & PSA Screenings: Nearly 22,000 screenings completed in 2025 – a 17% increase from last year.
🎯 Uninsured Patients: Birthday screenings resulted in a 54% increase in mammograms for those without insurance.
🎯 All Populations: A 17% increase in mammograms overall.
🎯 Breast Cancer Screening Goal: Among women aged 45–75, screenings now exceed the stretch goal at 62.5%.
🎯 Blood Pressure Screenings: Hypertension control (<140/90) is trending upward at 60%, surpassing goals.
Why Screenings Matter
Early detection saves lives by catching cancer before it causes serious problems. Even if you feel fine, screenings can help identify risks before symptoms appear.
🎥 Hear Commissioner Bill Lowry speak about the impact of his Birthday Resolutions initiative here: YouTube Link
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Upcoming Events Downtown
Chicago House Music Festival & Conference
August 27–30 | Millennium Park & Downtown
Celebrate Chicago’s legacy as the birthplace of House music with four days of free music, dance, education and community programming. Events include performances at Millennium Park, the Chicago House Music Conference, the Chicago House Dance Summit and a closing celebration along the Chicago Riverwalk. Click here for more information.
Panda Fest
August 28–30 | Butler Field
Panda Fest makes its Chicago debut with more than 100 food vendors, 200+ street food dishes, live cultural performances, a 15-foot inflatable panda and a panda bounce house. Click here for more information.
Navy Pier Summer Fireworks
Saturday, August 29 at 10 p.m. & Wednesday, September 2 at 9 p.m.
Enjoy Navy Pier’s free fireworks over Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Fireworks continue every Wednesday at 9 p.m. and Saturday at 10 p.m. through September 5. Click here for more information.
Chicago Jazz Festival
September 3–6 | Millennium Park & Downtown
Enjoy free performances celebrating all forms of jazz, featuring Chicago’s local talent alongside national and international artists. Click here for more information.
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FREE Storm Ready Kits from ComEd
ComEd, is pleased to offer complimentary Storm Ready Kits now available for 42nd Ward residents. These kits are designed to help households stay prepared for future severe weather and power outages and include essential emergency supplies such as rechargeable lanterns, portable power banks, first-aid materials, and blankets.
Supplies are limited. Distribution will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis for the first thirty-five (35) neighbors who sign up. If you'd like to claim a kit, please fill out our Google Form. We will reach out to the first 35 registrants with all the details on when and how to pick up your kit at City Hall. Thank you for taking this step to keep your household prepared and safe.
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LaSalle Central Small Business Improvement Fund
Applications open September 01, 2026!
The Department of Planning and Development's Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) opens for applications in September in the LaSalle Central TIF district. SBIF provides reimbursement grant funding for permanent building improvements and repairs.
Click here to register for an informational webinar at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2. Please contact my office with any questions about this process.
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North Branch Industrial Corridor Community Open House
September 1, 5:30-7pm
West Loop Library, 122 N. Aberdeen
Join the Department of Planning and Development, in partnership with the 27th and 34th Wards, for a community open house to learn more about the North Branch Industrial Corridor framework plan. Click here to learn more.
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Save the Date: Annual Men's &
Families' Health and Resource Fair
A Day Dedicated to Health, Wellness,
and Stronger Communities
Hello everyone,
It's that time of year again, and I couldn't be more excited to invite you to my Annual Men's & Families' Health and Resource Fair! I hope you'll take a moment today to save the date and make plans to join me for one of the most meaningful events we host each year.
This annual event is all about bringing valuable health services, educational resources, and community partners together in one place to help individuals and families live healthier, stronger lives. Whether you're looking to receive free health screenings, connect with healthcare professionals, learn about wellness resources, or simply spend time with neighbors who care about building a healthier community, there is something for everyone.
Attendees can look forward to free health screenings, PSA screenings, mental health resources, dental and vision information, neurology screenings for Alzheimer's, autism, and stroke, fitness and wellness education, an "Ask the Doctor" panel, Teen Talk discussions, community resources, giveaways, raffles, and much more.
I am grateful to our outstanding partners, Insight Hospital & Medical Center, Cook County Health, and New Life Southeast, for helping make this event possible. Together, we remain committed to improving access to healthcare, promoting prevention, and empowering families with the tools they need to thrive.
I look forward to seeing you, your family, your friends, and your neighbors on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at New Life Southeast, 7621 S. Greenwood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619. Mark your calendars today, and stay tuned for more exciting details in the weeks ahead!
Together, we can continue building healthier men, stronger families, and healthier communities.
#MensHealthMatters #HealthAndResourceFair #StrongerFamilies #CookCountyHealth #TeamLowry
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Featured in the News
I’m honored to have my work and community efforts highlighted in various news outlets. Each feature reflects the dedication, collaboration, and impact made through service in Cook County’s 3rd District. Take a look at some of the stories that showcase our continued commitment to uplifting our communities.
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Watch Our Story on YouTube
Check out some of the amazing moments we’ve shared across Cook County’s 3rd District! From community events to powerful conversations, these videos highlight the people, partnerships, and passion that keep us moving forward. Grab a seat, hit play, and see the difference we’re making, together!
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3rd District of Cook County
118 N. Clark St. Room 567
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-603-6391
* Monday - Friday 9am -5pm
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