SE Illinois News

State Rep. Dave Severin (R-Marion) has recently launched his second annual Backpacks for Buddies holiday donation drive in support of children in emergency foster care, according to a press release on his official website.

The purpose of the drive is to collect new backpacks that are fully stocked with hygiene supplies and other essentials for children in the foster care system.

"We are proud to be sponsoring Backpacks for Buddies once again this year,” Severin stated in the press release.

Individuals are encouraged to donate new items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, hair products, body wash, feminine hygiene products, underwear, diapers, socks, hats, and gloves.

“Too often, when children are removed from their homes and placed into emergency foster care, they are forced to put their toiletry items, clothing, blankets, toys, and other personal comfort items into black trash bags for transport." Severin explained, "When I first heard of this, I could not bear that thought, so my office launched an effort to help out.

These items will be collected until 2022 and distributed to DCFS and Southern Illinois child protection agency partners in the order in which they are received.

“Backpacks for Buddies collected literally hundreds of filled backpacks for children in need during the first year of the drive," Severin continued, "We are so thankful to the people of my district that reached out and lent their support."

Additionally, individuals are encouraged to donate goods such as coloring and activity books, crayons, colored pencils, markers, or anything else that may help a child feel more secure during a stressful situation.

Donations may be dropped off between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at Severin's office on 600 Halfway Road, Suite 103, in Marion.

Individuals interested in donating items may contact the District Office at 618-440-5090 to schedule a drop-off.