Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Dave Severin has launched his annual Backpacks for Buddies and Stuff the Backpacks Holiday Donation Drive, aimed at supporting minors in emergency foster care and others who need basic necessities such as medical supplies and socks.

“We are so thankful to the people of Southern Illinois who have already supported our previous drives,” Severin said. “Because of the success of our previous efforts, local children who are placed in foster care get a new backpack filled with things they need while they are transitioning away from their previous home. I am proud to be working closely with local child wellness advocacy groups this year for our Backpacks for Buddies and Stuff the Backpacks Holiday Donation Drive.”

The public is encouraged to donate new backpacks, which can be themed or neutral, and may fill them with suggested items including pillows, blankets, toiletries, hygiene products, coloring books, crayons, markers, or other useful supplies. Donations will be accepted through Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Items can be dropped off at Severin’s Mt. Vernon district office at 2209 E. Broadway, Suite 3 or his Benton office at 805 N. Main Street.

Collected backpacks and supplies will be distributed by CASA, The Hope Center, United Way and partner organizations to children in need. More information is available at RepSeverin.com/BackPacksforBuddies or by calling (618) 440-5090.

Severin was elected as a Republican representative to Illinois’ 116th House District in 2023 after replacing David Friess.