Birthday gifts provided for needy Downers Grove children

The Kiwanis Club of Downers Grove has donated $350 to provide birthday gifts for six needy, Downers Grove children served by the Humanitarian Service Project (HSP,) of DuPage County. The sponsored children will receive a “Birthday Box” full of new gifts, books, and party supplies, to make for a memorable, happy birthday through HSP's Children's Birthday Project. The Kiwanis had made supporting needy children, through HSP's program, an annual priority for the last 11 years, as part of the club's commitment to their motto “serving the children of the world.”

Throughout its 66 year history, the Kiwanis Club of Downer's Grove has been engaged in providing service to the needy, both locally and abroad. The club is committed to serving local families, children, and senior citizens through its support of numerous local organizations, in addition to HSP, including; Bridge Communities, Teen Parent Connections, and more. The Club also sponsors the Key Club at both Downers Grove High Schools. The club meets weekly at 7:30 am on Wednesdays at Kristina's Restaurant in Downer's Grove.

Each child in HSP's Children's Birthday Project receives a 20-25 lb Birthday Box containing: school supplies, 6 new books, and 6-10 new toys, stuffed animals, numerous smaller “filler gifts, and a “party in a box kit” which contain all of the supplies to throw a memorable birthday party. The children enrolled in the program, along with their siblings up to age 15, also receive a minimum of three gifts at Christmas through HSP's annual Christmas Offering. A number of the families served through the project also receive 3 weeks worth of nutritious groceries at Christmas time, and in the summer months to help combat hunger.