People's Resource Center receives $36,000 grant

The People's Resource Center has received a $36,000 grant award from the Russell and Josephine Kott Memorial Charitable Trust that will enable it to increase services to senior citizens who visit its food pantry and social services programs.

The grant will allow PRC to provide food for seniors at its pantries; support those needing social services help, including rent, transportation and food stamp assistance applications; and maintain salary support for employees who focus on this population.

PRC and the Kott Memorial Charitable Trust are invested in helping seniors remain independent as long as possible.

"It is an honor to be selected as a Kott Memorial Charitable Trust grantee," Executive Director Jeni Fabian said. "They are unmatched in their dedication to improving life for seniors. This generous gift will help provide vital food and services for our elderly neighbors throughout DuPage County. We are grateful to be partnering with this renowned organization."

In fiscal 2018, 12 percent of People's Resource Center clients were 65 or older. The number of households with at least one senior member has increased 16 percent since 2009.

PRC assists almost 30,000 DuPage residents each year by providing food, clothing and emergency monetary assistance. It also empowers clients to break the cycle of poverty by offering classes in computer training, literacy and art, along with a job assistance program.

It has two full-service locations in Wheaton and Westmont, and all its services are free.

The Russell and Josephine Kott Memorial Charitable Trust honors the lives of Russell and Josephine Kott. The trust was created to improve the lives of individuals, with an emphasis on gerontology.

Its funding enhances services for seniors through educational internships, quality programs and capacity building for agencies serving seniors.