Church benefit to help families in need
A Winfield church is trying to help area families struggling to pay medical expenses by sponsoring a chili supper and auction benefit this weekend.
Organizers of the event on Saturday, Nov. 21, at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 0S501 Summit Drive, say the church decided to sponsor the benefit after a member was diagnosed with a kidney tumor and couldn't keep up with the resulting medical bills.
"The family is experiencing a really rough financial burden," said Deb Odefey, the event's publicity chairwoman. "They've just had too many bills. And the extra load of all these medical expenses has made it impossible for them to keep up with the mortgage so far."
The hope is that the fundraiser, which starts at 6 p.m. Saturday, generates enough money to help that family and others. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will provide 100 percent matching funds for all the proceeds raised.
"We don't really have a set goal," Odefey said. "I know anything that we raise will be very much appreciated."
The people who attend will be treated to a meal that includes chili, hot dogs, chips and salad. There also will be beverages and dessert, including homemade cakes.
"We're hoping to get as big of a turnout as possible," said Odefey, adding that the church can accommodate about 100 diners.
Following the supper, a benefit auction will feature "treasures and collectibles" donated by members and businesses in the community, as well as in-kind services that donors are providing to support the cause. Auction items include gift certificates for local restaurants, Pheasant Run theater tickets and Bulls and Blackhawks tickets.
The cost for a meal is $6 per person. Tickets are $5 for each person who brings a nonfood item for the Wayne Township Food Pantry. Children younger than 12 eat for free.
For tickets or information, contact Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church at (630) 665-5110. Tickets are available at the door.
If you go
What: Chili supper/auction benefit
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21
Where: Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 0S501 Summit Drive, Winfield
Cost: $6 per person or $5 with a nonfood item for Wayne Township Food Pantry; free for children younger than 12
Info: (630) 665-5110