Metro East Sun

State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) has donated his legislative pay raise for September to the FFA Can-Do Challenge, a statewide initiative aimed at supporting those in need. Donations were collected at Smithton Grade School, Smithton Fire Department, Freeburg Country Mart, and Freeburg High School. The collected items will be distributed to food pantries across the region.

Schmidt has consistently voted against pay raises for legislators and donates any resulting increase to community organizations each month.

“The FFA is an outstanding organization, and I was thrilled to work with them to donate and collect 150 cans of food to help families in need throughout the region,” Schmidt said. “I’m passionate about fighting food insecurity and am committed to doing what I can to make a difference.”

The FFA Can-Do Challenge is held annually, with chapters constructing farm-themed structures from canned goods before donating all items to local food banks.

Schmidt, a Republican who was elected in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 114th House District after succeeding LaToya Greenwood, continues his involvement in local initiatives. The 114th District includes part of St. Clair County.

For more information, Rep. Schmidt’s office can be reached at (618)-215-1050.