Looking ahead: Elk Grove Township launches Holiday Outreach programs
Even though the holidays are several months away, Elk Grove Township has launched its holiday giving programs to let residents know how they can give back to those less fortunate over Thanksgiving and Christmas. The township's aim through three donation drives is to ensure all residents experiencing financial challenges can participate.
"Needs in our community have dramatically increased, which is why we are seeking donors for our holiday giving programs earlier this year than in previous years," said Elk Grove Township Supervisor George Busse. "We are hoping to be able to help all of our residents in need, but we will need some support from our community to reach this goal."
Monetary donors are currently being sought for the Thanksgiving Donation Drive, $50 gift card donations are requested to support the Holiday Gift program, and individuals are being sought to help to fulfill the holiday gift wish lists for older adults through the Angel Tree program.
Thanksgiving Donation Drive: Usage of the Elk Grove Food Pantry has increased by approximately 150% over the last four years, and the township wants to ensure every resident who utilizes the food pantry can also receive a complete Thanksgiving meal this holiday season. To this end, the township is hosting a virtual donation drive with the goal to reach $12,000 by early November. Donations can be made by calling (847) 437-0300, visiting www.elkgrovetownship.com, or dropping them off at the township offices, 600 Landmeier Road, in Elk Grove Village. Individuals can follow the township's fundraising progress on its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/elkgrovetownship.
Holiday Gift Drive: Parents experiencing financial challenges oftentimes cannot afford to give gifts to their children over the holidays. Residents can sponsor a child and help to fulfill their holiday wish list by providing a $50 gift card for a local retailer. Gift cards serve multiple purposes; they give parents the opportunity to experience the joy of giving despite their hardships, support local commerce through the purchase of gift cards at local retailers, and fulfill children's wish lists from Santa. Consider purchasing a gift card to benefit children over the holidays. To register as a donor, visit the township, register on the website, or call the Social Services Department at (224) 222-0944. Once registered you will receive detailed instructions of delivering gift cards.
Older Adult Angel Tree: We know that the holidays can be a difficult time for older adults, especially those who are living alone or who have limited financial resources. By purchasing a gift from the Older Adult Angel Tree, you can help to make sure that these individuals have a happy and memorable holiday season. The township will display an "Angel Tree" on the west side of the township office building starting Nov. 1. Senior residents who have been screened by the Social Services Department will be invited to place a gift request, not to exceed $50, on a tree ornament which will then be used to decorate the Angel Tree. Community residents will be invited to choose an ornament with its gift request after Nov. 1, Monday-Friday, between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The township asks that gifts are returned to the township by Dec. 8, so they can be disbursed to the resident in need.
Elk Grove Township thanks the community for their continued support in making these holiday programs successful. Your donations help to ensure that no one in our community goes without a festive meal or a gift this holiday season.
For information on all the services provided by the township, visit elkgrovetownship.com or contact Director of Social Services and Community Outreach, Corey Dewey, at (224) 222-0944.