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

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

Hope, Healing, and Health Equity:

Celebrating Cancer Survivorship

Last Saturday, Cheryl and I had the honor of attending the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Saturday Morning Forum, “Hope, Healing, and Health Equity,” in recognition of Cancer Survivorship Month. The gathering brought together healthcare professionals, faith leaders, advocates, survivors, caregivers, and community members for an important conversation about improving health outcomes and expanding equitable access to quality care.

I was grateful to join President and CEO Yusef D. Jackson, Congressman Jonathan Jackson, Rev. Stephen Thurston II, Rev. Anthony Spencer, Dr. Michelle Blakely, Wynona Redmond, and many others committed to strengthening the health and well-being of our communities.

As a cancer survivor, this conversation carries profound personal significance for me. Every survivor’s journey reminds us of the life-saving importance of early detection, timely treatment, quality healthcare, and strong support systems. It also reinforces our responsibility to confront the disparities that too often determine who has access to care. A person’s ZIP code, economic circumstances, or background should never determine their opportunity to live a healthy life.

I was especially grateful to share this meaningful occasion with my beautiful wife, Cheryl. Her unwavering love, encouragement, and support have been an extraordinary source of strength throughout my own journey.

Cancer survivorship is about more than overcoming a diagnosis—it is about embracing hope, supporting healing, and ensuring that others have access to the resources and care they need. Together, we can continue building healthier and more equitable communities where every resident has the opportunity not simply to survive, but to thrive.

#HealthEquity #CancerSurvivorshipMonth #HopeHealingHealthEquity #RainbowPUSH #TeamLowry

Celebrating America’s 250th

Birthday in Hyde Park

It was a pleasure to join friends, neighbors, families, and community leaders for Hyde Park’s Fourth of July celebration. As we commemorated America’s 250th birthday, the occasion provided a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the values of freedom, representation, civic engagement, and community that continue to unite us.

The Fourth of July is about more than fireworks and festivities. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our neighborhoods and recognize the importance of remaining engaged in the communities we call home. Seeing residents, elected officials, and community partners come together in Hyde Park was a wonderful reminder that our neighborhoods are strongest when we support one another and work toward a shared future.

Thank you to Onyx Strategic Partners for bringing the community together for such an outstanding celebration. It was wonderful to spend time with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Alderman Desmon Yancy, State Representative Kam Buckner, State Senator Robert Peters, representatives from Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia’s Office, Kim Neely Du Buclet, Discover Hyde Park, Karen Calloway, Greg Kelley, Heather Ireland Robinson, Rendel Solomon, and so many other dedicated leaders, partners, and neighbors.

As we celebrate this historic milestone for our nation, I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve a community that understands the value of unity, service, and civic participation. Together, we will continue strengthening Hyde Park, the South Side, and communities throughout Cook County while celebrating the people and partnerships that make them extraordinary.

#CommissionerBillLowry #HydePark #FourthOfJuly #CommunityStrong #CookCounty

Health Is Wealth: Standing

Together Against Colorectal Cancer

Earlier this week, I was proud to stand alongside my fellow Cook County Commissioners at a press conference to raise awareness about the growing threat of colorectal cancer. While colorectal cancer has traditionally been associated with middle-aged and older adults, diagnoses among younger adults have become an increasing public health concern. This troubling trend underscores the importance of education, prevention, and early detection.

I want to thank my colleague, Commissioner Kevin B. Morrison, for introducing a resolution that brings greater attention to this critical health issue. By encouraging open conversations about colorectal cancer, recognizing potential risk factors, and promoting appropriate screenings, we can empower residents to take a more proactive role in protecting their health.

As a survivor of both kidney and prostate cancer, I understand on a deeply personal level how important early detection can be. Regular screenings are among our most valuable tools in the fight against cancer. Detecting cancer at an earlier stage can provide patients and their families with more treatment options and a greater opportunity for positive outcomes.

I encourage residents to speak with their healthcare providers about their individual risk factors, understand their family medical history, and follow recommended screening guidelines. We must also continue working to ensure that every resident has equitable access to preventive healthcare, screenings, education, and the resources necessary to live a healthier life.

Our health should never be taken for granted. Taking preventive action today can make a profound difference tomorrow. As I often say, Health is Wealth.

#HealthIsWealth #ColonCancerAwareness #EarlyDetectionSavesLives #CancerPrevention #CookCounty

Connecting Residents with Cook County Resources

This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of joining Senator Mattie Hunter for an engaging Town Hall that brought residents, elected officials, and community leaders together for meaningful conversation about the issues affecting our neighborhoods. I was honored to participate alongside State Representative Kim Du Buclet, State Representative Sonya Harper, and the legendary Congressman Danny K. Davis.

The Town Hall provided an important opportunity to listen directly to residents, exchange ideas, answer questions, and discuss the resources available to support individuals and families throughout our communities. These conversations are essential because effective public service begins with understanding the needs, concerns, and experiences of the people we represent.

During the discussion, I was pleased to share information about the many programs and resources available through Cook County, including our Birthday Screening Program and other initiatives designed to improve access to preventive healthcare and promote healthier communities. Connecting residents with these resources remains an important part of our continued commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to the information and services they need.

I sincerely appreciate everyone who attended and contributed to the conversation. Your questions, perspectives, and ideas help inform our work and strengthen our collective ability to serve our communities effectively.

Thank you to Senator Mattie Hunter for hosting such an informative and impactful Town Hall and to my fellow elected officials for their continued leadership and partnership. By listening, sharing knowledge, and working collaboratively across every level of government, we can continue building a healthier, stronger, and more connected Cook County.

#BillLowry #CookCounty #CommunityEngagement #HealthIsWealth #WorkingTogether

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

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

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.

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!