#214Cares tops $70k assistance to families

While Illinois is beginning a phased re-opening, many people remain out of work, meaning many District 214 students and families remain in economic need and will continue to do so for weeks or months to come.

The District 214 Education Foundation responded quickly when the COVID-19 pandemic began creating severe economic disruptions in March, costing many students' parents their jobs and means of support.

The Foundation immediately launched the #214Cares campaign, soliciting donations to address basic and urgent needs of students and families. The community responded: Within a week, boosted by a $10,000 match from the Foundation, #214Cares had raised more than $45,000.

Now, the #214Cares effort has raised more than $90,000, and nearly $70,000 has been distributed to more than 250 families. But, as noted, many families will continue to struggle to buy sufficient groceries or to make utility or rent payments or to cover basic academic needs.

The Foundation continues to welcome and appreciate the community's generosity. Gifts can be made at www.214foundation.org, with opportunities for recurring donations. A gift of $250 can adopt a family, ensuring they have the basic needs they need to survive right now.

Families who have received assistance through #214Cares are appreciative, with many sending notes expressing sentiments such as "Thank you so very much! This will definitely help our family!" and "I wanted to take a minute and thank you all for this great gift; thank you from the bottom of our hearts!"

In addition to giving online, donors may make checks payable to "D214 Education Foundation" with "214 Cares" in the memo line and mail to the Foundation, 2121 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005. Gifts are tax-deductible to the extent of the law and will be receipted.