SPRINGFIELD — While people are staying home to keep safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s a population —survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence — who are living in more vulnerable situations. 

State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) applauds Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services for expanding services for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.

“Domestic violence and sexual assault survivors are living in constant fear,” Morrison said. “Right now, they have nowhere to go and no one to watch out for them. I can’t imagine how scared some of these people are in an already worrisome time.”

IDHS announced Thursday the launch of a $1.2 million plan to increase the capacity of its current statewide network of services for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors during the current COVID-19 outbreak.

The plan expands the domestic violence helpline by creating a one-stop access point for all shelter needs. Survivors can call the helpline at 1-877-863-6338 to be connected to a shelter that can provide assistance.

The agency is also working with the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence to establish an emergency fund to support local providers with assistance needs related to COVID-19.

Additionally, domestic violence prevention and intervention providers will receive a three-month advance of their current grant to support continuations of services and respond to the needs of domestic violence survivors.

IDHS will also provide the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault with a grant advance to enhance the capacity of local rape crisis centers statewide to aid sexual assault survivors. The agency will similarly advance grant funds to Partner Abuse Intervention Program grantees for programs costs related to COVID-19.​

• The Shields Pantry, 906 Muir Avenue, Lake Bluff: Donations may be made by calling 847-234-0802.

• Northfield Township Food Pantry, 2550 Waukegan Road, Suite 100, Glenview: The pantry is asking for financial donations that will be used to provide additional resources and food to its clients. Please visit spatpta.memberhub.store/shopping/items/112947 to donate or mail a check to the above address.

• Wheeling Township Food Pantry, 616 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights: The most needed items at the moment are beverages, jelly, peanut butter, vegetables and white rice. Please call 847-259-7730 to arrange a drop off.

• Moraine Township Food Pantry, 800 Central Avenue, Highland Park: Drop offs are accepted. Please leave groceries on the table outside. The most needed include oatmeal, canned fruit, cereal, mac & cheese and tuna. The pantry is also accepting direct donations to keep it stocked. Donations can be made by visiting www.morainetownship.org/super/pantry.html.

• West Deerfield Township Food Pantry: 601 Deerfield Road, Deerfield: The pantry is in need of non-perishable food items and personal hygiene items. It is closed to the public; however, donors may put their donations in a cart found outside the door.

SPRINGFIELD – The deadline to file taxes is around the corner and State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is urging people in need of financial assistance and the elderly to take advantage of free tax preparation programs.

“Tax season can be stressful, especially for people who cannot afford to have their taxes filed by a professional,” Morrison said. “The free programs will give people the peace of mind to know their taxes were done accurately, without worrying about paying hundreds of dollars for the service.”

A number of communities in the north suburbs have opportunities for free tax preparation for elderly and low income families.

Every Friday from now until April 10, eligible people can get their taxes prepared and filed for free at the Deerfield Turner Center, located at 375 Elm Street. You must make an appointment by calling 847-940-4010.

Moraine Township is also hosting free tax filing for those with household incomes of $55,000 or less. Call 847-780-6644 to schedule an appointment.

There are dozens of other areas in the community that offer similar assistance. AARP’s Foundation Tax-Aide program – which is open to non-members – helps those with low-to-moderate income with their taxes. Locations for the program can be found here.

Additionally, the IRS offers income tax assistance and tax counseling for individuals making $56,000 or less, people with disabilities, taxpayers who speak limited English and individuals 60 years of age or older. To find a location, click here.

Federal and state income taxes must be filed by April 15.