Reactions continue to come in on Quaker closure

Apr. 4—DANVILLE — Reactions and statements from state and local officials continue to come in after this week's announcement that Quaker Oats in Danville will close in June.

State Rep. Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville) issued the following statement after news broke on Wednesday that the Quaker Oats factory in Danville will be permanently closing its doors as of June 8, 2024.

The closure will result in the laying off of more than 500 people.

"I am stunned and immensely saddened by the news that the Quaker Oats factory is closing after 65 years of doing business in Danville. This is devastating to our community, to the families that depend on the income they receive from the factory, and also to our local economy.

"Quaker Oats must honor its commitment to supporting the affected employees through this transition, providing them with the necessary resources and assistance to navigate this challenging time. Local officials and community leaders will come together to explore avenues for economic revitalization and support for those impacted by the closure.

"Despite this setback, I remain hopeful that Danville will emerge stronger and more resilient," Schweizer said.

A statement from Mickensy Ellis-White, chairwoman of the Vermilion County Democratic Party reads: "The Vermilion County Democratic Party is in solidarity with the workers and their families employed by Quaker Oats. While we await details, we are reaching out to our state and federal representatives to assess the situation and determine what assistance can be given to the employees and their families. We do not abandon good, dedicated laborers and their families and will seek to be of help as this situation unfolds. As information develops, we will keep our membership, and concerned citizens, informed."

State Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) released the following statement: "This terrible news doesn't just impact Danville, but all central Illinois. Our office is committed to helping these employees in any way possible. After speaking with Mike Marron, the CEO of Vermillion Advantage, our first priority will be to assist in their upcoming job fair.

"We need to get as many of these people re-employed as quickly as possible. To that end, I have additionally talked with (Vermilion) County Board Chair Larry Baughn, Senator (Paul) Faraci, Representative Brandun Schweizer and have messages into Danville's mayor to let them know that our office is ready to assist during this terrible time," Rose said.

Vermilion County Works Director Chuck Jones sent this statement to Danville Area Community College colleagues, "I just wanted to take a minute to address (Wednesday's) news regarding the closure of the Quaker manufacturing facility in Danville. Obviously, this is distressing news for all of those involved. I know many of you have family and friends who are directly affected by this, and my heart goes out to them in this difficult time.

"Being in this business for as long as I have, I've seen the impacts that plant closures have on our communities. It goes beyond just losing a job ... this affects families, communities, and our collective sense of security and well-being, Stress and uncertainty come with the territory in situations like this, but also has the ability to bring out the best in us.

"At VCW, Ashley, Kaylee and I are resolved to provide needed assistance and guidance to the affected workers. Jerremy at the AJC (American Job Center) is working to schedule resume workshops and job fairs to meet the immediate needs of the workers and the employers who will be looking to start their next career journey. I have been in contact with the state regarding setting up initial meetings for workers, possibly here on campus. I'll be reaching out to several of you in the upcoming days and weeks to present DACC as a beacon of hope for those looking for a new start in the job market. And the process to obtain funding has already begun to support those workers who choose to embark on a new career path.

"At a time like this, our community needs DACC more than ever. I look forward to working with you to provide affected workers with the support, advocacy, and services that they deserve. We stand committed to standing in solidarity and support of the Quaker workforce, and hope you can help show how strong and resilient our community is.

"Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns you may have, even if on behalf of a family member or friend. I have always lived by the adage that strength only comes through adversity, and I am truly looking forward to seeing what great things we can accomplish when the proverbial chips are on the table. I am and will always be honored to be part of the DACC family."