News Releases

People putting food donation in a box
Keeping food safe amidst food insecurity
URBANA, Ill. — Food insecurity continues to be a major issue in the United States, and the recent lapse in SNAP benefits has worsened struggles for many families. When low-...
Group of older adults practicing tai chi
Discover the Power of Tai Chi
SAVOY, Ill - Experience a gentle, yet powerful way to improve your strength, flexibility, and balance while reducing pain and fall risk. Medical studies confirm Tai Chi for Arthritis enhances quality of life,...
Peaches on a tree with 2026 Southwestern Illinois Commercial Tree Fruit School text.
Annual research-backed training yields results for fruit tree growers
HARDIN, Ill. – Growing fruit on trees is a rewarding experience, but it comes with challenges. From pests and disease to climate stress or soil issues, a single mistake can set back growth. Get current research-based information to help your tree fruits thrive at the Southwestern Illinois Tree...
A family busy with social media
New family resource helps tackle digital challenges at home
URBANA, Ill. — The advent of smartphones, social media platforms, streaming video sites, and numerous other technological advancements has led to unprecedented changes throughout society, including changes in daily life at home. This rapid change has raised multiple questions and concerns among...
Lessons for Living
Discover practical tools for a healthy, inspiring life
URBANA, Ill. — As people age, they face various challenges affecting their cognitive abilities, social participation, and overall health. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that includes healthcare, social support, and financial planning to ensure a dignified and...
Vanessa Jones, Emily Harmon, and Rachel Mannen standing in front of Illinois Extension display
Local Extension Family and Consumer Science Team Honored
GRAND RAPIDS, Mic. – This October, members of the Illinois Extension Family and Consumer Science team serving Champaign, Ford, Iroquois, and Vermilion counties were honored at the National Extension Association for Family and Consumer Sciences (...
Tracy Bowden sorting through food drive donations
University of Illinois Holiday Food Drive Comes to a Successful End
CHAMPAIGN, Ill – For several weeks, staff of the Champaign County Extension office have witnessed dozens of individuals bring in bags and bags of shelf-stable items for the Holiday Food Drive. The Holiday Food Drive was launched to help feed families and individuals in need throughout Champaign...
Split photo - Smiling marshmallow snowman floating in mug of cocoa and group of older adults playing Jenga
Illinois Extension to Host Winter Wellness Miniseries
CATLIN, Ill - There are many joys that can be experienced in winter, from the holidays, snow, and festive events. However, even with the positivity of the holiday season, the stress of it all can be a bit too much to handle. Winter can also bring the chill temperatures and an increased need to...
An ambassador shows younger members spices.
Illinois 4-H livestock contest teaches decision making, adaptability
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H youth demonstrated their livestock knowledge during the 2025 State 4-H Livestock Skillathon Contest, held Saturday, Nov. 8, at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Stock Pavilion.Youth ages 8–18 competed in junior, intermediate, and...
Don't Go It Alone: Improving Your Social Connections w group of older adults
Illinois Extension Offers Free Social Isolation Workshop
URBANA, Ill - In partnership with Salt & Light Ministry and CRIS Healthy Aging, Illinois Extension Family Life presents Don’t Go It Alone: Improving Your Social Connections. Join Illinois Extension Family Life Educator Emily Harmon on Tuesday, December 2, at 10 – 11 AM at Salt...
Youth winners pose with their winning creations.
Young builders bring stories to life in 4-H challenge
URBANA, Ill. — From mad scientists to haunted trees, Illinois 4-H youth let their imaginations run wild in October’s statewide 4-H Creating with Building Bricks Challenge, themed “Monster Mash: Build a spooky creature or monster.” More than 80 youth from across Illinois...
A deer jumping into a road in front of a car on a foggy morning
Time change raises risk of driver collisions with wildlife
URBANA, Ill. — This Sunday at 2 a.m. Central Standard Time, daylight saving time will end, with clocks set back one hour. One of the most noticeable effects of “falling back” is that people will find themselves driving home from work or for after-school activities as the sun sets, putting them...
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