Take Part in Elk Grove Township's Seasonal Giving Programs

Elk Grove Township is encouraging area residents to support its holiday giving programs. Individuals are being sought to help fulfill holiday gift wish lists for older adults and to help brighten Christmas for children through their Hope for the Holiday program and the Marine Corps Toys for Tots.

"We greatly appreciate how generous our residents have always been in supporting our holiday programs," said Elk Grove Township Supervisor George Busse. "Our recent Thanksgiving Meal Drive was a huge success and every family on our list was able to enjoy a full Thanksgiving meal. We hope our holiday programs are just as successful."

Overall, the need for the social services provided by the township has grown dramatically over the last several years. As examples, over the last three years township food pantry usage has more than doubled and assistance provided for helping cover rent and utility expenses has grown by almost 250%. Changing demographics, an aging population and post-COVID financial issues appear to be driving the increasing need.

Learn more about holiday programs the township is current seeking donations for below:

• Older Adult Angel Tree: New this year, an "Angel Tree" is on display inside both entrances of the township building. The tree benefits low-income seniors (65+) who live in the township. Seniors are invited to place a gift wish on a tree ornament by Dec. 8. The ornaments are then used to decorate the Angel Tree. Donors can visit the township Monday-Friday, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., to take an ornament and grant a gift wish. Donors are asked to drop off the unwrapped gift at the township.

• Holiday Gift Drive: Individuals or families can help make a child's holidays brighter by donating one or more $50 gift cards from a local department store or retailer. The gift cards are given to low-income parents so that they have the ability to buy Christmas gifts for their children. Gift cards serve several purposes; they give low-income parents a chance to experience the joy of giving despite financial hardships, they support local businesses, and they fulfill a child's holiday dreams. Gift cards must be delivered by Friday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.

• Toys for Tots: The township is a collection site for the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots Program. Donations of unwrapped, new toys can be dropped off at the township offices until Friday, Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. Drop-off boxes are located inside both the east and west entrances of the township building, during regular business hours.

Elk Grove Township is at 600 Landmeier Road, in Elk Grove Village, and hours of operation are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For information on holiday programs, call the Department of Social Services at (224) 265-6111. Community members can also follow the township on social media for news and upcoming events on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.