Working for Illinois Caucus

WOOD RIVER — State Rep. Monica Bristow, D-Alton, and state Sen. Rachelle Crowe, D-Glen Carbon, are collecting gently used clothing to give to local organizations in need.

“As we head into colder weather, it is important that we remember those who may be less fortunate or dealing with a sudden loss of income in these uncertain times,” Bristow said. “I encourage anyone who is able to give to join us in helping keep all members of our communities warm this year.”

“With less sunshine during the day and lower temperatures at night, Rep. Bristow and I are asking for the public’s help to provide warm clothes for our less fortunate neighbors,” Crowe said. “Any and all donations are appreciated, but I encourage residents to be mindful when selecting seasonal clothing items.”

Crowe’s office is also collecting old cell phones for the nonprofit Cell Phones for Soldiers. The organization collects old, broken cell phones and tablets and sends them to be refurbished or recycled. Proceeds from those sales are used to send prepaid international calling cards to our troops and to provide emergency funding to veterans. All cell phone donations are tax deductible.

“As technology advances, this program provides a secure way to dispose of unwanted electronic devices while benefiting those who protect our freedom overseas,” said Crowe, a member of the Senate’s Veterans Affairs Committee.

“A phone call with a loved one is a precious moment for both our service men and women overseas and their families,” Bristow said. “This is a simple way to help turn a broken or outdated phone into a way to help thank our service men and women for all that they do to protect our freedom.”

Starting Friday, Oct. 9, residents can drop off donations every Friday in October from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Crowe’s office in Wood River, 111 N. Wood River Ave., Suite A.