State Senator Cristina Castro announced five local school districts across the Northwest Suburbs will receive more than $7.8 million in evidence-based funding this year, in addition to the base funding that the state provides.

“Students deserve a learning environment that not only meets their needs, but challenges them to think critically and sets them up for lifelong success,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The evidence-based model continues to equip our schools and teachers with the resources they need to deliver a high-quality education for all students in Illinois.”

State Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin, said the bill creating a licensing process for midwives is a “historic measure,” one that has been in the works since 1986. 

Midwifery moved a step closer to becoming a licensed profession in Illinois on Wednesday thanks to a measure advanced by state senators during the second day of the fall veto session.

State Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin, said the bill creating a licensing process for midwives is a “historic measure,” one that has been in the works since 1986.

“When we talk about maternal health for women, especially Black and Brown women, now we give folks options and choices to help advocate for them and draw down the horrible maternal morbidity we’re seeing across the nation,” Castro said. “Illinois is at the forefront of that.”

Read the whole article here: State Senate passes measure to license midwives without nursing degrees - Chicago Sun-Times (suntimes.com)

July 29 is National Intern Day! Senator Castro was excited to have two interns helping in her district office this summer. Read more about Ben and Jada here. 

ELGIN – Despite Gov. Pritzker’s Stay at Home Order and the closure of many places of business, domestic violence shelters and hotlines remain operational and continue to provide help. State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) is urging those who need that help to seek it.

“During the Stay at Home order, it may seem more difficult or even impossible to escape a domestic violence situation, but I promise you that is not the case,” Castro said. “Even though it’s recommended that we stay inside, and even though public safety is a top priority, there is help available to individuals suffering from domestic violence. I urge you to seek that help if you or someone you know needs it.”