Quinn promotes veterans lottery ticket

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Pat Quinn took part Monday in a rare fly-around tour to highlight a new Illinois Lottery ticket benefiting the state’s veterans.

The governor announced the new $2 Veterans Cash ticket at the Hope Manor Apartments — a supportive housing project for homeless veterans — in Chicago on Monday, followed by stops in Peoria, Milan and Rockford.

The ticket is the latest component of a program launched in 2006 and earmarks lottery proceeds to veterans. Quinn’s administration says more than $11 million has been awarded over the years to more than 210 veterans’ organizations statewide.

“That is one of our No. 1 missions here in Illinois: to make sure we take good care of all of your veterans, especially when it comes to shelter,” Quinn said at the Hope Manor event.

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs, which receives the ticket proceeds, provides grants that fund veterans’ job training, medical expenses, care for the homeless and long-term care.

Quinn, who is seeking re-election next year, has made veterans issues a priority during his tenure as governor.