Rockford Sun

Illinois' 11th Congressional District candidate Jerry Evans has urged constituents to contribute to hurricane relief efforts. In an October 10 Facebook post, he said, "Tens of thousands of our citizens are reeling after the catastrophic destruction of Hurricane Milton."

"Tens of thousands of our citizens are reeling after the catastrophic destruction of Hurricane Milton," said Evans, according to Facebook. "Please consider making a donation to the relief efforts. Every penny counts!"

According to Evans, his Facebook post included a link to the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Relief website. The site provides resources from Red Cross Reunification Teams to help individuals connect with family or friends affected by Hurricane Milton or Hurricane Helene. It also details how donations are utilized—to establish safe shelters for families during such events, deliver water, food, and emergency supplies to impacted neighborhoods, provide medical care for those in need, and assist with damage assessment and recovery planning.

Screenshot of Jerry Evans' Oct. 10 Facebook post | Jerry Evans For Congress Facebook page

The American Red Cross is also encouraging Illinois residents to donate blood as part of disaster recovery efforts. A news release noted that more than 100 blood drives were canceled after Hurricane Helene made landfall, resulting in thousands of uncollected blood and platelet donations. "For so many people living with urgent medical care needs, blood transfusions are essential," the release said. "Donations in the Southeast are key to keeping our nationwide network stocked. The Red Cross operates through a national inventory with the ability to move blood wherever and whenever it is needed most."

Evans' campaign focuses on education and community service around Chicago. As a small businessman and founder of a suburban music school, he holds a degree in music from Wheaton College. Currently residing in Warrenville with his family, Evans participates actively in mentoring programs and missionary training sessions and has been involved in missions to India, Mexico, and South Africa. His campaign website notes that he was raised alongside four siblings on Midwestern values emphasizing hard work and community assistance.