Many in the U.S. feel helpless as they watch the war in Ukraine. But we'll take you to a small gift shop in Illinois, which has become a place to show support and find a sense of belonging. Also, Russian immigrants in the state explain their thoughts watching the war unfold. Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide.

The first U.S. town founded by a Black person was in Illinois. Free Frank McWorter was formerly enslaved. He settled New Philadelphia in Pike County in the 1830s and both whites and Blacks lived there. It is now being considered for National Park status. McWorter's great-great grandson and his wife have written a book about the community and we hear from them.And we learn about how contracts for deed are used to help some individuals obtain home ownership. But things don't always work out. Those stories and more on this week's Statewide.

On this week's episode, homelessness brings its own health risks. But those in need often have more pressing concerns, like find a place to sleep or their next meal. We talk with the leader of a medical team that brings healthcare to the streets. And the lack of continued federal funding means most COVID testing programs will begin to charge the uninsured. We discuss the end of "free testing for all." Those stories and more on Statewide.

For some teachers, the return to the classroom has been rocky. Experts are saying there is a mental health crisis among young people and many are acting out. All of this comes as districts consider changes to discipline policies. We have a report.Also, why are some nursing home resident leaving their jobs only to return to the exact same work? Listen to this week's Statewide.

Chester Weger was paroled after nearly six decades in prison for the killing of three women at the state park. He has maintained his innocence. We talk with his attorney. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.

Marcus Belin is the first Black principal at a suburban high school, where the student body is primarily white. He's using his experiences to help students connect history with recent events. Also, we discuss the indictment of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and a Ukrainian college student in Illinois tells us how she's feeling about what's happening in her home country.

A new book examines how former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan rose to power and how he used it to remain in control for decades. The author, an investigative reporter for the Chicago Tribune, delves into major moments in Madigan's career and the scandals that led to his exit. And a western Illinois sailor killed in 1941 is finally coming home. Those stories and more on Statewide.

Residents of one Illinois community filed a class action lawsuit against their city over the quality of the water supply. A bad odor, discoloration and even high levels of lead made the tap water nearly unusable, according to the residents. We take a closer look at the issue.

As Lincoln's birthday approaches, we hear from the author of a new book examining the relationships and acquaintances that eventually led to emancipation. Some of those occurred here in Illinois, before Lincoln ever stepped foot in the White House.We also bring you a conversation with the new U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois. He's the first Black individual to hold that office. Those stories and more on this week's Statewide.

It has been one of the most troubling mysteries of the pandemic. Why do some people wind up with lingering symptoms, months after their infections, and others don't?A doctor joins us to discuss his work that might provide some answers and relief for patients.We also talk with Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike as we mark two years of the pandemic.