York Township’s America250 benefit draws nearly 2,000 attendees, raising over $30k for the food pantry

York Township saw overwhelming success for its America250 benefit, held on Sunday, June 28, at Knolls Park in Lombard. The day-long community celebration welcomed nearly 2,000 attendees and raised more than $30,000 to support the York Township Food Pantry through the Friends of York Township, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

The event was created not only to raise critical funds for the food pantry, but also to bring residents together in celebration of our nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Through live music, family activities, local vendors, food trucks, Touch-a-Truck, and community partnerships, the event honored the spirit of America by showcasing the generosity, patriotism, and civic pride that define York Township.

“We knew this event had the potential to bring people together, but the response exceeded every expectation,” said York Township Supervisor Timothy Murray. “Seeing nearly 2,000 people come out to support the Food Pantry while celebrating America's 250th anniversary is a testament to the generosity and compassion of this community. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, performed, and helped make this event such a tremendous success.”

Funds raised from the event will directly benefit the York Township Food Pantry, which serves hundreds of local families each month by providing nutritious food and essential household items to residents experiencing food insecurity.

York Township extends its sincere appreciation to the city of Oakbrook Terrace, village of Villa Park, York Center Fire Protection District, and York Center Park District for their partnership and support in making this event possible. Their collaboration helped create a true community celebration that residents of all ages could enjoy.

The township also would like to recognize and thank the elected officials from Oakbrook Terrace, Oak Brook, Lombard, Villa Park, and Elmhurst who volunteered their time by participating in the community dunk tank.

Their willingness to take a seat above the water in support of the food pantry helped raise more than $2,200, proving that a little friendly fun can make a big impact for neighbors in need.

From the opening ceremony presented by the Villa Park VFW Post 2801 Honor Guard to the final performance by 7th Heaven, the event showcased the very best of York Township — a community united in service, celebration, and compassion.

“This event perfectly reflected what York Township stands for,” Murray said. “Our motto is Neighbors Helping Neighbors — Together We Serve, Together We Thrive, and the America250 Benefit brought those words to life. The kindness, volunteerism, and community spirit we witnessed throughout the day are exactly what make York Township such a special place to call home.”

York Township extends its heartfelt thanks to every resident, volunteer, sponsor, vendor, entertainer, and community partner who made the America250 Benefit such an extraordinary success.

The overwhelming support demonstrated throughout the day is a powerful reminder that when a community comes together with a shared purpose, incredible things can happen.

For more information about the York Township Food Pantry or to learn how you can support its mission, visit yorktwsp.com.