Community effort makes a difference
They say “it takes a village” and this was certainly true for Southminster Presbyterian Church’s recent God Energizing Mission project.
Several businesses in our community stepped up, along with 200 church members and friends, to make much-needed repairs on 17 homes in Wheeling Township owned by low-income or senior residents on a Saturday in early November.
The GEM project would not have been possible without Wally Welker and John Schiavone from Quality Plumbing, who donated more than 25 hours not only that day, but also before and after. Because of their work, several families who were down on their luck now have working sinks, toilets, washing machines, etc.
Other community businesses that provided services, supplies and/or equipment for free or at reduced costs included: Ahlquist Construction Co.; Ibbotson Heating Co.; Jay Haack Builders and Suburban Trim and Glass.
Because of their generosity, local families will have warm homes and working kitchens this winter.
Other GEM volunteers helped install a new countertop and windows; painted walls; washed windows and cleaned floors and carpets; did landscaping and cleaned out gutters; and performed several other tasks at the homes.
We are fortunate to live in a community where individuals and businesses are willing to help neighbors in need.
Cindy Greenwood
Arlington Heights