During the most recent deer hunting season, Hunters Feeding Illinois reported providing food to nearly 50,000 families in downstate Illinois. The organization distributed close to 26,000 pounds of frozen, ground venison to 54 food pantries across east-central and southern Illinois. Formerly known as the Illinois Deer Donation Program, the Hunters Feeding Illinois initiative expanded this year to increase its coverage in downstate areas.
In a separate initiative, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is launching an anti-littering campaign aimed at reducing trash on the state’s roadways. The “Put a Lid on Litter” campaign encourages public participation through social media. IDOT officials emphasize that litter along highways is not only unsightly but also costs taxpayers millions of dollars each year for cleanup efforts, with over $7 million spent on litter pickup in 2023.
Additionally, many downstate Republicans and community members are expressing concerns over the Governor’s proposal to eliminate road districts and townships. Critics warn that this move could lead to higher property taxes and negatively impact essential local services. State Senator Chapin Rose and others argue that while the proposal aims to increase efficiency in local government, it would likely force municipalities and counties to take on additional burdens, potentially resulting in cuts or eliminations of vital services such as cemetery maintenance, snow plowing, and road repairs.
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