DES PLAINES – To help older adults stay connected with their community and spread cheer this holiday season, State Senator Laura Murphy is collecting holiday cards for residents at local long-term care facilities.

“A handwritten note or card is a great way to help those living at long-term care facilities get into the holiday spirit,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Last year we collected over 2,300 cards that were distributed to seniors—more than double what we collected during our first year—so we are grateful to be able to bring this holiday tradition back for another year.”

Murphy is encouraging residents of the Northwest Suburbs to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely or isolated during the holidays. Children are also encouraged to participate.

“It only takes a few minutes, but a heartfelt holiday greeting can make all the difference to someone who may be struggling during this challenging time,” said Murphy. “Your kind words could bring a smile to a neighbor’s face.”

People can mail or deliver their cards now through Dec. 15 to Murphy’s office at 1645 South River Road, Suite 7, Des Plaines, IL 60018. Cards can be dropped through the mail slot. For more information, contact Murphy’s office at 847-718-1110.

DES PLAINES – To help residents safely dispose of sensitive documents, State Senator Laura Murphy and State Representative Marty Moylan are again hosting their annual shred drive on Saturday, Oct. 21.

“One way we can all prevent fraud and identity theft is by securely disposing of sensitive personal documents,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Take advantage of this free and convenient opportunity to help keep your information out of the wrong hands.”

The event will be held in the parking lot of Juno Lighting Group at 1300 S. Wolf Road in Des Plaines on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Examples of documents with personally identifiable information that should be safely discarded include bank statements, outdated medical records, tax returns, utility bills, junk mail, credit card applications and receipts.

For more information, contact Murphy’s office at 847-718-1110 or online.

DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy is teaming up with State Representative Michelle Mussman to host a senior fair on Friday, Oct. 20.

“Ensuring that our seniors have access to vital health care resources and social services is extraordinarily important as they strive to live their lives with dignity,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “This event will provide access to important services that will aid the seniors in our community.”

The event will feature tables and presentations from various state and local agencies providing services in the area, including Commissioner Kevin Morrison’s office, ComEd, PACE, Regional Transit Authority, Citizens Utility Board, Center of Concern and more. The fair is made possible by Elk Grove Township and will be held in the township building at 600 Landmeier Rd. on Friday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, contact Murphy’s office at 847-718-1110 or online.

DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy is hosting a food drive to support the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry Oct. 13.

“When you donate to a food pantry, you’re not just providing sustenance, you’re providing dignity,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Each contribution can be the difference between a meal and an empty plate for someone in need.”

The food drive will be held on Friday, Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Murphy’s district office located at 1645 South River Rd., Suite 7, Des Plaines. Donations will be accepted during office hours in the days leading up to the drive. Individuals who cannot make it on the day of the drive may drop items off starting at 9 a.m. during weekdays.

A list of most commonly needed items and a link to donate directly are available at www.schaumburgtownship.org/services/food-pantry. Items may also be purchased and shipped directly through the Township’s Amazon wish list: http://a.co/9YbUnas.

“Hunger is a problem that we can solve together. By contributing, you become part of the solution,” Murphy said. “Hunger knows no boundaries, but neither does compassion.”

For questions contact Murphy’s office at 847-718-1110.