Kane County Reporter

The third annual coat drive organized by Senator Don DeWitte is now accepting new and gently used coats to help families in the 33rd District. The drive will run until November 16, with donations being accepted at four locations: Sen. DeWitte’s District Office in West Dundee, St. Charles Municipal Building, Salvation Army of St. Charles, and Algonquin Village Hall. Collected coats will be distributed to Kids in Need-McHenry County, Lazarus House in St. Charles, the Elgin Wayside Center, and the Salvation Army.

In addition to the coat drive, Senator DeWitte has scheduled a few events this October. A Senior Expo will be held on October 15 at Crystal Lake Park District Grand Oaks Building and an IPASS on Demand event is set for October 28 at Algonquin Township Building.

Senate Republicans are calling for an independent audit of DCFS following allegations of physical and sexual abuse at Aunt Martha’s Integrated Care Center in Chicago. Senate Resolution 1229 demands an investigation into abuse reports, staff hiring processes, and contract monitoring after serious accusations were reported by Injustice Watch.

Governor Pritzker appointed Marc Smith as Director of DCFS in 2019 despite potential conflicts of interest. Smith signed a no-bid contract with A-Alert Security, which has received over $7 million since 2022 despite allegations against its employees Antonio Hopkins and Trulon Henry.

The Illinois fall trout season opens on October 19 across various locations statewide. Anglers must have a valid fishing license and trout stamp to participate.

Senator DeWitte invites constituents to honor veterans through the Wall of Honor display from November 11 to November 25 at the Illinois Capitol Rotunda by submitting photos and stories of their loved ones who served in the military.

On October 1, Senate Republicans requested Illinois-specific data on non-citizens convicted or charged with serious crimes from U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul.

LIHEAP applications are open for winter energy assistance for eligible Illinois residents. Priority groups can apply now while all income-eligible households can apply starting November 1.

For further details about these events or programs, constituents can contact Senator DeWitte's office or visit his website.