St. Paul of the Cross gives $26,600 to The Center of Concern

A Catholic church in downtown Park Ridge recently awarded $26,600 in parishioners' donations to The Center of Concern, a Park Ridge not-for-profit that serves the elderly and local families in need.

Father Britto Berchmans of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic church recently presented a check for the parish's Lenten Almsgiving program to John McNabola, executive director of The Center of Concern.

“We are extremely grateful for this very generous gift,” McNabola said. “The Center of Concern is honored to have been named recipient of this year's Lenten program at St. Paul of the Cross.” McNabola said that The Center's work with the elderly and other families in need was highlighted for parishioners at the church every week during Lent.

Adrienne Timm, director of the parish's social service ministry, said that “The Center was chosen for the positive impact it has made in the community since Park Ridge resident Dee Heinrich founded the agency 34 years ago. The agency's social workers and dedicated volunteers have assisted a large population right here in Park Ridge for decades.”

McNabola said that the $26,600 donation from the parish will help The Center continue to help residents facing challenges related to aging, unemployment, or other economic or personal problems. “The strong showing of support from St. Paul parishioners was remarkable. Its importance cannot be overstated given the recent elimination of funding from the City of Park Ridge,” McNabola said. The City of Park Ridge dropped its funding for The Center earlier this year when aldermen failed to override a mayoral veto of $49,500 for The Center. It was the first time in 15 years that The Center failed to receive City of Park Ridge money.

Founded in 1978, The Center of Concern offers programs designed to prevent homelessness, friendly visitors for the homebound, and volunteer opportunities in the office and in the field. Homeowners desiring additional income, companionship, or the ability to remain in their homes may wish to consider The Center of Concern's Shared Housing Program. Residents are matched with screened applicants who possess a temperament suitable to shared accommodations.

The Center of Concern's offices are at 1580 N. Northwest Hwy., Suite 310, Park Ridge. Its web site is www.centerofconcern.org. Its phone number is 847-823-0453.