Support Over Stigma mobilizes community for MLK Day of Service

Posted January 21, 2026 8:27 pm

Submitted by Support Over Stigma

Dozens of volunteers join in Support Over Stigma's annual MLK Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 19 in Carol Stream. The event supports veterans, first responders, and individuals facing food insecurity and homelessness across DuPage County. Courtesy of Support Over Stigma

Support Over Stigma hosted its annual MLK Day of Service, bringing together community members to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through action. A total of 48 volunteers dedicated their time to support veterans, first responders, and individuals facing food insecurity and homelessness across DuPage County.

Throughout the day on Monday, Jan. 19, volunteers assembled an incredible volume of critical resources, including:

• 400 shelf-stable meals to help combat food insecurity

• 250 blessing bags for homeless veterans, each containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, lotion, socks, peanut butter, granola bars, applesauce, peanuts, and other grab-and-go protein items

• 2,500 snack packs for first responders and those who serve our community, featuring sandwich crackers, granola bars, meat sticks, lollipops, and more

• 100 essential care bags prepared for the VA to support homeless veterans, including soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, lip balm, lotion, and socks

• Packing Easter eggs and additional outreach items to support upcoming programs and events

One of the youngest volunteers helps put together a snack pack for first responders with sandwich crackers, granola bars, meat sticks, lollipops, and more. Courtesy of Support Over Stigma

“This day reflected Dr. King’s vision of people from all backgrounds coming together for the common good,” said Zoeie Kreiner, founder and CEO of Support Over Stigma. “As Dr. King reminded us, ‘Everyone can be great because everyone can serve,’ and our volunteers lived that message by showing up with compassion and purpose for those who have served and those who continue to serve our communities.”

DuPage County Board District 6 member James Zay joins Support Over Stigma's CEO and founder Zoeie Kreiner, right, and Tiffany Wells at the annual MLK Day of Service. Courtesy of Support Over Stigma

The MLK Day of Service was made possible through generous grants from the Wheaton Elks Lodge #2258 and the DuPage County Board District 6, whose support ensured that hundreds of individuals will receive essential resources and reminders that they are not forgotten.

Support Over Stigma also extends a special thank you to the Blue Star Families -Chicagoland Chapter for providing incredible volunteers who helped make the day a success.

The St. Charles-based 501(c)3 nonprofit remains committed to supporting military members, veterans, first responders, and their families through peer support, resource connection, and community-driven initiatives. Events like the MLK Day of Service demonstrate the power of coming together to serve those who have served us.

As part of Support Over Stigma's MLK Day of Service on Jan. 19, volunteers assemble 250 blessing bags for homeless veterans. Courtesy of Support Over Stigma

About Support Over Stigma

Support Over Stigma is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military members, veterans, first responders, and their families through mental health awareness, peer support, and practical assistance. The organization works to reduce stigma, save lives, and strengthen communities through education, outreach, and direct support.

Members of the Blue Star Families Chicagoland Chapter volunteer in Support Over Stigma's annual MLK Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 19 in Carol Stream. Courtesy of Support Over Stigma

For more information about Support Over Stigma or to get involved, visit supportoverstigma.org or follow Support Over Stigma on social media.