State rep has programs on unclaimed cash, utility bills

The office of state Rep. Monica Bristow, D-Godfrey, will be partnering with the Illinois State Treasurer’s office to host an I-Cash event on Tuesday, Feb. 27, from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Hayner Public Library at the Alton Square Mall, located on the first floor across from J.C. Penney’s at 132 Alton Square.

“As a part of ongoing efforts to return Illinois property to its rightful owners, we hope these I-Cash events make it convenient for residents to check and see if they have unclaimed property,” said Bristow. “Each year, there is a large amount of unclaimed property tax refunds, security deposits and paychecks, among other items that have been forgotten about by owners, which are then held by the treasurer until their rightful owners can be found.”

Since taking office as Illinois Treasurer two years ago, Mike Frerichs has connected $220 million worth of property back to its rightful owners through the I-Cash Program. If you are unable to stop by, you can check to see if you or any member of your family has unclaimed property in the Treasurer’s Office by visiting https://icash.illinoistreasurer.gov/.

“Many folks not even be aware that the state owes them money, but this program aims to help connect people with property that is rightfully theirs,” said Bristow. “I urge everyone to go to either to one of these events or visit online to see if your name is there, so that these assets can get back to the proper owners.”

For more information, call Bristow’s office at (618) 465-5900 or email repmbristow@gmail.com.

Bristow to host utility bill clinic in Bethalto

State Rep. Monica Bristow, D-Godfrey, will be partnering with the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) on Wednesday, March 7, to host a Utility Bill Clinic at the Bethalto Senior Citizens Center on 100 E. Central St. in Bethalto from 10 a.m. until noon p.m.

“We have all experienced stress after looking at increases on our utility bills, especially in the winter months,” said Bristow. “This clinic will help check if there are any billing mistakes being made by the service provider, or unknown fees and charges that could be eliminated to help consumers save money on their utility bills.”

Bristow will be holding a clinic where utility bill experts from the CUB will be on hand to review utility and phone bills, and to explain possible charges or offer suggestions that could save residents money on their bills. This is a free event, and residents should bring copies of the bills they would like to review. Space to attend the clinic is limited, and RSVPs are strongly recommended.

“I encourage any utility user who might have questions or concerns about their bill to come out for this free event,” said Bristow, “Attending this utility bill clinic not only helps provide a better understanding of the different charges on a utility bill, but also offers tips on how to minimize your next bill and ultimately help residents keep more money in their pockets.”

Call (618) 465-5900 or RepMBristow@gmail.com.

Bristow hosting food drive for Canned Food Month

ALTON – To highlight National Canned Food Month, state Rep. Monica Bristow, D-Godfrey, is hosting a food and supply drive throughout the month of February to benefit the Alton Salvation Army.

“Around the holidays and during the cold winter months, organizations that help families in need often find themselves in extra need of food and other supplies,” said Bristow. “To highlight National Canned Food Month, I am hosting a food drive at my constituent service office. All donations will benefit the Alton Salvation Army.”

Donations of canned food and other nonperishable food items, as well as the following supplies are requested: toothbrushes; toothpaste; deodorant; bars of soap; combs; brushes; toilet paper; and paper towels.

Donations can be brought to Bristow’s full-time constituent service office, located at 528 Henry Street in Alton, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“I want to thank Representative Bristow for hosting the food and supply drive for the Salvation Army,” said Lieutenant Stacy Boyer. “With the generous donations from the community, we will be able to continue feeding hungry families in our area through the coming months.”

For questions or for more information, contact (618) 465-5900.