SE Illinois News

State Senator Dale Fowler and State Representative Patrick Windhorst have successfully secured funding to prevent the closure of the Golden Circle Senior Centers. Senator Fowler, who led the efforts, stated, "Since this meeting, I have been in direct contact with the Illinois Comptroller’s Office to find out what funds are owed by the State of Illinois to the facilities." It was determined that $136,000 in voucher reimbursements are owed to Golden Circle, which will now be released immediately to keep the vital resource centers operational.

Representative Windhorst credited the teamwork that quickly came together, saying, "I am happy to have been able to assist in helping Golden Circle solve this important issue." He expressed gratitude towards Senator Fowler and Comptroller Mendoza for their hard work and leadership in ensuring the centers can continue providing essential services to the community.

Gloria Stacey, Executive Director of Golden Circle Senior Center, expressed her gratitude towards Senator Fowler and Representative Windhorst, stating, "Because of the expedited process in receiving state funds, it is with a warm heart I announce that the Golden Circle Senior Centers will now remain open."

During their meetings with Golden Circle, Senator Fowler and Representative Windhorst also discovered potential funding delays involving Managed Care Organizations used by the facilities. Senator Fowler emphasized the importance of these facilities for the senior citizen community and the employees working there, stating, "I will continue to closely monitor this situation in the coming weeks and months ahead."