Metro East Sun

State Senator Erica Harriss of Glen Carbon has announced the start of her annual Share the Warmth Drive, aiming to assist families in need across Illinois’ 56th District during the winter months. The initiative will run from November 3 through December 3.

During this period, Harriss’ office will collect new hats, gloves, socks, hand warmers, and chapstick for donation to Riverbend Family Ministries. Donations can be delivered or shipped to her Edwardsville District Office at 120 North Main Street, Suite 1B, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Those who wish to drop off items outside of these hours are encouraged to call (618) 307-5789 to arrange a time.

“As temperatures drop, it’s important that we come together to support those who may be struggling to stay warm,” said Senator Harriss. “A simple act of kindness, like donating winter supplies, can make a big difference for someone in need.”

For further details about the drive, community members can contact Paige Buente at (217) 782-7330 or via email at pbuente@sgop.ilga.gov.

“Together, we can keep our community warm and show that the 56th District truly cares for one another,” Senator Harriss concluded.

Harriss is a Republican who was elected in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 56th Senate District, succeeding former state senator Kris Tharp.