Today the Illinois Senate Public Health Committee discussed the next steps for reducing obesity by offsetting the disproportionate marketing of sugary beverages to low-income families.

“Sugary drinks remain cheap and are marketed toward low-income families,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago,) Vice-Chair of the committee. “The state needs to address the obesity epidemic through healthcare initiatives and funding associated healthcare costs.”

March is nationally recognized as Women’s History Month. In this video, State Senator Mattie Hunter discusses the way women shaped America.

Instituto Cervantes, a Chicago public library in State Senator Mattie Hunter’s district, can purchase new materials thanks to “Back to Books” grant program.

“The ‘Back to Books’ grant supports an essential part out of our district: libraries,” Hunter said. “Through educating the public, especially children, libraries serve as the foundation of a strong community.”

Instituto Cervantes of Chicago, located north of the Chicago Loop in the third legislative district, will receive $5,000 to go toward purchasing educational resources. Instituto Cervantes of Chicago, established in 1996, is a part of the largest international Spanish teaching organization.