Illinois State Senator Patrick Joyce

Joyce encourages farmers to apply for grain storage loan program

Details: Category: Press Releases; Friday, October 09, 2026 09:50 AM

grain

KANKAKEE – In order to support farmers during times of economic uncertainty, State Senator Patrick Joyce is encouraging local farmers to apply for a new pilot loan program through the Illinois Finance Authority. The program is designed to assist farmers across the state by connecting them with the capital needed to construct on-site grain storage facilities.

“As a farmer, I’ve seen firsthand the effects of the federal administration’s policies,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Input costs have been on the rise for far too long. At a time when farmers are struggling to keep their heads above ground, we need to do everything we can to support Illinois’ biggest industry.”

Higher input costs have emerged as producers’ biggest concern. A record 52% of farmers surveyed by Purdue University identified input costs as their top concern, while 54% said high input costs were the primary factor preventing improvement in their farm’s financial situation.

Joyce announces funding opportunity for local fire departments

Details: Category: Press Releases; Wednesday, October 07, 2026 09:48 AM

Fire

KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce announced that applications are now being accepted for the Small Equipment Grant Program benefiting fire departments and ambulance services.

“Fire departments make an everyday impact on our communities,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Budgets can be tight, especially for rural fire departments. This grant allows departments to get the essential equipment they may otherwise not be able to afford.”

The Small Equipment Grant Program assists fire departments and not-for-profit ambulance services in Illinois, particularly those experiencing difficulty in generating the necessary revenue for small equipment.

Joyce announces grant funding to promote tourism in Kankakee County

Details: Category: Press Releases; Tuesday, October 06, 2026 09:41 AM

VisitKank

KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce announced $18,000 in grant funding is being awarded to Kankakee County to attract visitors and support tourism in the region.

“Kankakee County is home to some wonderful attractions and local businesses that Illinois residents, or out-of-state visitors, may not be aware of,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “What this funding will do is get the word out there and put Kankakee County on the map for visitors in the future.”

Kankakee County Convention & Visitors Bureau Inc. was awarded $18,000 to provide monthly camera shoots and full-production shoots creating a library of videos to promote county attractions, events, outdoor recreation, restaurants, lodging properties and locally owned businesses. Videos will be used across social media, digital advertising, websites, email campaigns, public relations and partner promotions.

Joyce encourages families to apply for energy bill assistance

Details: Category: Press Releases; Thursday, October 01, 2026 11:36 AM

UtilitySupport

KANKAKEE – To combat rising energy prices, State Senator Patrick Joyce encourages eligible families in the 40th District to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

“Fall is here and temperatures starting to drop, with that we will see utility costs start to rise” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Families need to be aware of the support systems that are out there.”

The LIHEAP program – which opens Oct. 1 – utilizes a priority application system to ensure that families most in need can apply first. All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to two times the federal poverty level are eligible to receive support through LIHEAP. A chart with the eligible income thresholds can be found here.

Welcome

Welcome to my official Senate website. This will be your tool for news about what I am doing in Springfield, important information regarding the 40th District and events taking place in and around our community.

It is important to me to have a resource available to my constituents with content necessary to keep you informed as well as a place to have your voice heard. Please continue to visit this site as it grows and see how I am working for you.

Signature of Senator Patrick Joyce 40th District