BENTON, Ill. (WSIL) -- State Rep. Dave Severin has kicked off his annual Backpacks for Buddies and Stuff the Backpacks Holiday Donation Drive. This initiative aims to support minors in emergency foster care and others in need of essential personal items.

“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.”

Donations of new backpacks, which can be themed for boys, g

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