Donors needed for Palatine Township Easter Basket Program

A sure sign of spring is Palatine Township's yearly Easter Basket Program, which provides baskets filled with treats, toys, games and other items leading up to the Easter holiday for children from financially struggling families living in the township.

In 2018, more than 725 children received Easter baskets, which was made possible by dozens of generous donors. In addition to individuals - churches, businesses and organizations also donated baskets, or donated funds to benefit the program.

"We invite everyone who is able to get involved with this spring initiative that helps to brighten the Easter holiday for children whose families are in need," said Palatine Township Supervisor Sharon Langlotz-Johnson.

"It is heartwarming to see the smiles on the children's' faces when they realize that someone has created an Easter basket especially for them."

Those who would like to donate a basket have different options on how to register. They can stop by Palatine Township Center, 721 S. Quentin Road in Palatine, and sign out a bunny, chick or egg cutout, which will include a child's first name, age, gender and assigned number, or register online at palatinetownship-il.gov/easter-basket-donor.

Suggested items to fill the Easter baskets include edible treats, small toys, games, hair accessories, coloring books, crayons, books, and other items appropriate for children ages 10 and younger. The value of a basket and its contents should be approximately $25, and all edible items must be in their original packaging.

Donors are asked to wrap baskets in cellophane, or another transparent material, and include the cutout bunny, chick or egg inside the basket.

Registration to become a donor is open through Monday, April 1. All Easter baskets must be returned to the township by Monday, April 15. If preferred, individuals can make a tax-deductible donation to the Needy Family Fund to benefit this program.

As with other outreach programs that occur on a yearly basis, Palatine Township identifies local families in need whose children are recipients of the Easter Basket Program.

For more information, call Palatine Township at (847) 358-6700 or visit palatinetownship-il.gov/easter-basket-donor.