First Presbyterian presents $10K donation to PADS of Elgin
First Presbyterian Church of Elgin presented a $10,000 donation to PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) on Sept. 24. PADS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to respectfully and compassionately empowering persons and families in need of housing to become self-sustaining.
The generous contribution will support PADS’ general operating expenses during a critical period as COVID-era funding sunsets with no new state or federal support currently on the horizon.
The donation represents First Presbyterian Church of Elgin’s commitment to ensuring the most vulnerable community members continue receiving vital shelter and supportive services.
The Rev. Thea Kornelius of First Presbyterian Church stated, “Our mission, as followers of Jesus, is to express God’s love for all people and God’s creation by promoting justice, loving kindness and walking humbly with God. To that extent, we follow our calling as a Matthew 25 church — to feed the hungry, house the homeless, welcome the sojourner and visit the sick and imprisoned. Giving to PADS was a very concrete way for us to live out our call as Christians.”
During the 2024-25 fiscal year, PADS has made a remarkable impact in the community, providing 12,397 nights of shelter and serving 37,190 meals to guests. The organization sheltered 137 guests, including 21 children, and housed 38 individuals in stable living situations. PADS also extended its reach beyond shelter walls, serving 3,205 outreach meals to those in need.
The majority of PADS guests come from Elgin Township (69%), followed by Dundee Township (14%), with additional clients from Hanover Township, Rutland Township, and surrounding areas.
“First Presbyterian Church has been a longtime force for good in our community, and I am so glad to call them partners in delivering shelter to those who need it in Northern Kane County,” said PADS Executive Director Katie Shaw Thompson. “These funds will make an immediate and lasting impact in the lives of families and individuals experiencing homelessness.”
PADS’ mission is to respectfully and compassionately empower persons and families who are in need of housing to become self-sustaining by providing shelter, needed services, and professional guidance.
First Presbyterian Church of Elgin is committed to serving the community through faith-based outreach and charitable giving.
PADS of Elgin provides emergency shelter, supportive services, and advocacy for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Kane County. Through shelter operations, case management, and community partnerships, PADS works to break the cycle of homelessness and help guests achieve housing stability. For more information, visit padsofelgin.org.