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April 28, 2026

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Federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility rules may impact some Skokie residents who receive food benefits, also known as LINK benefits in Illinois.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

If you receive SNAP, make sure your information is up to date with the Illinois Department of Human Services, and use the SNAP Work Requirements Screener to see if the new work rules apply to you.

Skokie community members who need help understanding or navigating SNAP benefits can contact Skokie Health and Human Services at 847-933-8252.

FOOD RESOURCES

Visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository website to find local food resources. Learn more about Niles Township Food Pantry, which serves the Skokie community.

Recent reports of measles outbreaks are an important reminder that vaccine-preventable diseases have not disappeared. Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications, especially for infants, older adults and those with weakened immune systems. 

Vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective ways to protect against serious illness. Keeping up with recommended immunizations helps prevent the spread of diseases, such as measles, whooping cough, flu, COVID-19, shingles and pneumonia.

Programs and resources: Skokie Health and Human Services supports residents through the children’s vaccine and adult vaccine programs. These services help income-qualified families stay on schedule with recommended immunizations and make it easier for adults to stay protected throughout every stage of life. 

For more information, please call Health and Human Services at 847-933-8252.

Over the last month, the Village Board held four budget hearings to complete a department-by-department review of the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) Budget. But, the process begins months earlier. 

60-second overview: Skokie Finance Director Julian Prendi walks you through the annual budget process in the latest edition of 60 Seconds with Skokie — including what it takes to build a financial plan for the entire community. From department requests, to Village Manager review, to Board approval, every step ensures Skokie's resources are allocated thoughtfully and transparently. 

Join the Skokie Police Department for a free, family-friendly bicycle safety event on Sunday, May 3, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Oakton Park. 

Learn safe riding practices, rules of the road, and enjoy activities for all ages. The event will include:

From native plantings to rooftop solar, the Village is sharing upcoming events, programs and resources to help you live more sustainably.

ICYMI: GARDENING FOR THE SEASONS

In case you missed it, a recording of the Beautification and Improvement Commission’s recent spring lecture, “Gardening for the Seasons: Lessons from Lurie Garden,” is now available.

SOLAR-BRATION, APRIL 30

Thinking of going solar? Learn about the Switch Together Chicagoland program on Thursday, April 30, 5 p.m., at Sketchbook Brewing in Skokie. Register for this free event.

HOME ENERGY SAVINGS EVENT, MAY 5

Learn how to understand your utility bills, avoid scams, and get an overview of programs to reduce your energy costs at a free Home Energy Savings event presented by the Village and the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) on Tuesday, May 5, 6 p.m., at Skokie Public Library. 

Start planning your 2026 block party with the Skokie Human Relations Commission! Register to attend the annual Block Party Forum this Wednesday, April 29, 6:30 p.m. at Skokie Public Library.

Who should attend: If you’ve ever been curious about hosting a block party but weren’t sure where to start, this event is for you.

Help Skokie families in need by donating diapers, wipes and formula as part of the Commission on Family Services’ 4th annual Mother’s Day Diaper Drive.

Drop off donations from May 1 through 10 at Skokie Public Library (5215 Oakton St.; east entrance), Devonshire Cultural Center (4400 Greenwood St.) and Oakton College (7701 Lincoln Ave. in Skokie or 1600 E. Golf Rd. in Des Plaines) during their hours of operation or donate online using the Amazon Wishlist.

Diaper sizes 4, 5 and 6 are in greatest demand; unopened, whole packages only. Donations help support local families through the Niles Township Food Pantry.

Nominations are being accepted through Thursday, April 30 for this year’s Grand Marshals! Help us honor the heroes of our community by nominating a Military Grand Marshal or Community Grand Marshal who represents the very best of the Skokie spirit.

Enjoy a memorable Sunday afternoon of traditional American music. The Vox Elders perform live at The Storefront, 4051 Main St., this Sunday, May 3 at 2 p.m. — and best of all, admission is free.

The Vox Elders bring together nearly 50 years of collective performing experience in a rich variety of traditional and old-time forms. Expect early country harmony, plaintive ballads and laments, fiddle tunes, and even harmony yodeling.

The concert is free and open to the public. Cash donations will be gratefully accepted at the door, with proceeds benefiting the Niles Township Food Pantry.

EVENTS

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held at Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St.