Kankakee Times

Republican state House hopeful Jackie Haas is taking time from her busy campaign schedule to join thousands of others in a demonstration in support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

“I have been involved in this event for many years,” Haas said. “They have supported and sponsored many of the Mental Health First Aid classes I have taught over the past several years.”

With September being national Suicide Awareness Month, Haas is asking others to join as participants or to donate to the tax-free cause, which has an ultimate goal of reducing suicide rates by up to 20% over the next five years. 

“We are joining the community of more than 350,000 people walking in hundreds of cities across the country in support of the mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” Haas added. "Please help us reach our fundraising goal by donating to a team member.”

Running against Democrat Charlene Eads in the 79th District, Haas has taken the campaign trial by storm, recently demanding that her opponent join a growing number of others in Springfield in calling for embattled House Speaker Mike Madigan to step down.

Madigan now finds himself cast as a central figure in an ongoing federal corruption probe involving ComEd where the utility giant is accused of funneling bribes to several of his associates in hopes of currying favor with him.

“For too long, Illinoisans have felt powerless, but now we have an opportunity to chart a new path forward,” Haas added in a statement. “That’s why I’m calling on Speaker Madigan to resign immediately and I’m asking my opponent to join me. We hear a lot of empty words from Springfield politicians, but this is personal for me. It’s time we repair the foundation of Illinois and that starts with ethics reform.”