ELGIN – In an effort to spread more information about and to encourage businesses owners to apply for the second round of Business Interruption Grants, State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) is partnering with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to host a BIG webinar on Monday, Sept. 28 at 2 p.m.

“The Business Interruption Grants are a great way for businesses owners who are facing financial pressure from the COVID-19 pandemic to see some of that burden lifted,” Castro said. “I look forward to working with DCEO to host this informative webinar and I hope it motivates business owners to apply for a grant.”

The webinar will discuss eligibility, the application process and requirements, and the best way to use the grants to be successful, among other information. Registration is required, and can be done by clicking here.

ELGIN – To help residents obtain tests for COVID-19, State Senator Cristina Castro is partnering with several other government officials and agencies to host a mobile testing site this weekend in Carpentersville.

“Getting tested for COVID-19 remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread, since those who test positive know that they should quarantine to avoid exposing others to the virus,” Castro said. “The testing site we’re sponsoring is open to anyone, and I encourage everyone to stop by and get a test.”

ELGIN – In recognition of her outstanding commitment to fighting for Latino communities, State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) was presented with the Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official by Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs.

“It is important that we celebrate those who have paved the way before us, but we must also highlight leaders like Senator Cristina Castro who work diligently to push for diversity, protect consumers, and fight for working families in Illinois,” Frerichs said.

“As one of a small handful of Latinas serving in the General Assembly, I’ve always made it a top priority to stand up for Latino communities,” Castro said. “During Hispanic Heritage month, it’s important to remember not only where we came from, but where we are going as well.”

ELGIN – To help small businesses deal with undue economic burden caused by COVID-19, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Development has begun accepting applications for a second round of Business Interruption Grants. State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) is encouraging local businesses who are struggling financially as a result of the pandemic to apply.

“The past several months have been hard on all of us, and despite shutdown restrictions being eased, many small businesses are having difficulty paying their staff and keeping their doors open and lights on,” Castro said. “Since small businesses are the backbone of our community, I am encouraging businesses owners to apply for the Business Interruption Grants to help ease some of the pressure they’re under due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”