Wheeling Township Giving Opportunities this Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, life may look different for many local families this year, particularly those who have faced unexpected health or financial challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on many of Wheeling Township's neediest families, but the Township remains dedicated to providing holiday joy to as many families as possible this season and throughout the coming year.
Many individuals, organizations and businesses are looking for meaningful ways to give back and support those experiencing challenges in the local community. Wheeling Township has programs that may fit the bill, which include Thanksgiving Baskets, Adopt-A-Family for the holidays, as well as the Wheeling Township Emergency Fund, Inc.
"We live in an incredibly generous community, and never has that been more obvious than this year," said Wheeling Township Supervisor Kathleen Penner. "The COVID-19 pandemic has brought our community together. We are truly amazed at how much people care about their neighbors."
Ways to help your neighbors in need this season:
1. Thanksgiving Baskets: Provide a qualifying family with all the fixings needed for a terrific holiday meal. Donors are asked to fill baskets with a variety of non-perishable food items from a list that will be provided by the Township. To participate, email GA@WheelingTownship.com by November 2, 2020 and state how many baskets you wish to donate. After registering, a detailed list of items for baskets will be provided, along with drop-off details. In 2019, 295 families received Thanksgiving baskets through this donation program.
2. Adopt-A-Family (AFP): Due to COVID-19, the AFP program will look a little different this year: gift cards will be provided to our AFP families rather than gifts as in previous years. Donors are asked to purchase and donate $50 gift cards from Target, Kohl's or Walmart only. The Township's goal is to provide $50 per person; children under 18 years of age will be prioritized over parents. In 2019, this program brought smiles and holiday joy to 254 Township families in need. Email GA@WheelingTownship.com to sign up by November 13, 2020; gift cards should be dropped off no later than December 1, 2020.
3. Monetary Donations: If preferred, donations can be made by check and made payable to: Wheeling Township Emergency Fund, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations received will be used throughout the year to assist low income residents facing eviction or utility disconnection issues, and are tax deductible as allowable by law. Checks can be mailed to, or dropped off at Wheeling Township, 1616 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004.
For additional information on how you can make a difference in the lives of families in need this holiday season, or throughout the year, call Wheeling Township's General Assistance Department at 847-259-7730 or email GA@WheelingTownship.com.
Through its dedication to providing services to residents, whether it be helping them to maintain their independence, sustain their health, or offering critical assistance during times of need, Wheeling Township continues to make a significant difference in the community…as it has since 1850. For more information, call Wheeling Township at 847-259-7730 or visit wheelingtownship.com.