Dave Syverson

Many people enrolled in the state's Medicaid program will soon be eligible to receive a host of nonmedical services that could improve their overall health, including housing and nutrition assistance.

Employment in skilled nursing facilities nationwide as of February was down 8.3 percent compared with February of 2020, the month before the pandemic hit.

The drive will accept cards through Feb. 7, according to a news release.

The estimated cost for Illinois to continue providing health care coverage to noncitizens who are otherwise ineligible for Medicaid benefits has been revised upward to $1.1 billion for the upcoming fiscal year.

About 20,000 valentines were delivered in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day to residents of area nursing homes, assisted and memory care centers and long-term care facilities.

Several area legislators are participating in the third annual Valentines for Seniors card drive, designed to “brighten the days” of older residents in the area and “ensure they know they are a valued part of the community,” according to news releases.

Bringing new business and housing to Marengo depends on how the city develops land at the new interchange at Route 23 and Interstate 90, Marengo Mayor John Koziol said.

Those looking for way to spread the love this Valentine’s Day to an area older adult are invited to take part in two legislators’ Valentine’s for Seniors Card Drive through Feb. 7.

State Senator Dave Syverson, R-Cherry Valley, will host an in-person regional town hall event Oct. 13 in DeKalb.