CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins joined Black Men United and Governor JB Pritzker on Wednesday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for new affordable housing developments for low-income families in the Maywood community.

“This ceremony was a full-circle moment for me. As someone taken in by my foster family and a proud Proviso East Class of 2004 graduate, I know what it’s like to not always have a place to sleep or to experience homelessness,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “I am proud to stand with Black Men United as they open the doors to new opportunities for families of the Maywood community.”

The project in Maywood includes rehabilitation and development of housing units that not only meet high-quality living standards but also integrate emerging technologies to promote energy equity and sustainability. Through state funding, Black Men United is working to provide safe, affordable housing for low-income families of the Maywood community.

Focus for the project remains on designing developments for residents to have access to clean energy solutions and modern infrastructure, reducing the disproportionate energy burden that low-to-moderate income households often face, and diverting the disparity that often stems from aging, inefficient housing stock that has not received the proper investments to remain competitive or energy efficient.

Collins joined Pastor John Harrell, president of Black Men United, who led the way on this effort to address housing and energy challenges in the building and to continue building a long-term strategy for energy resilience. By incorporating clean energy infrastructure that can evolve with new and emerging technologies, Illinois can ensure communities are not left behind.

The project is funded in part by a $2 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

“I will continue to prioritize policy and funding that puts people first,” said Collins. “I am proud to work with organizations like Black Men United who are truly boots on the ground and committed to restoring dignity to communities across our great state. I want to send a special thanks to Pastor Harrell, Terry Young and Anthony Prince from Black Men United, and to Governor Pritzker for continuing to support communities in every corner of the state.”

A video of Senator Collins speaking at the ceremony on Wednesday can be viewed below.

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