•August 20, 2025•

Sarah Bush Lincoln Healthy Communities raised a record $17,325 for the SBL Dental Program from the 2025 Races for all Paces. The SBL Dental Program provides preventive and restorative care for children throughout the area. A dental team visits schools to provide preventive care, while restorative care is provided in the dental clinic at 225 Richmond Avenue East, Suite B, in Mattoon. Volunteer dentists are key partners in the program, providing restorative care in their clinics for children who need additional or further extensive care.

•August 20, 2025•

by Angela Hogan, R.N. 

MSPH, Administrator of the  Moultrie County Health  Department

The WIC and Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) connects women, children, and seniors with fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs through participating farmers’ markets. The program operates during the summer months until September 30, 2025. Eligible participants can enjoy healthy, seasonal produce while supporting local farmers. 

What is the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program? The FMNP is a statewide initiative with two main goals. First, to improve nutrition for women, children, and seniors: Participants receive coupons to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from authorized farmers’ market vendors. Second, to support local farmers and family farms. The program increases sales at farmers’ markets, encouraging growth and diversity in Illinois agriculture. 

•August 20, 2025•

Kala Cesar and Jeannie Ruppert attended the Psi Iota Xi National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, June 27th through 29th. The theme for the convention was “Share the Past, Experience our Future,” which celebrated the accomplishments of the Psi Iota Xi, led by Mickie Hansen, National President. 

•August 20, 2025•

by DM Williamee

This reporter has conducted additional research on the “Get Covered Illinois” (GCI) program, slated this November to replace “Healthcare.gov,” also referred to as the “Health insurance Marketplace,” which approximately 466,000 Illinoisans used for their health insurance needs in 2025. Those who purchase their insurance through “Healthcare.gov” do not have the option to continue with that program. “Get Covered Illinois” is the State of Illinois replacement.

Like many policies, “Get Covered Illinois” premiums can be impacted by factors such as age, tobacco use, and location. How these factors will be determined and to what degree they will impact premiums is currently unknown and may vary by carrier.

Recent changes in federal policy may result in double-digit premium increases for many Illinoisans, due to the expiration of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits. While some tax credits will still be available for those who qualify, the amount will be smaller, driving up insurance costs for enrollees.