Bloomingdale Chamber donates half of raffle proceeds to township food pantry

Proceeds from the 2020 Bloomingdale Grand Raffle were donated to the Bloomingdale Township Food Pantry Friday, Dec. 4.

The raffle was a fundraiser for the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce and ran from March to Dec. 2, when the winner was drawn.

The drawing was supposed to happen during the chamber's annual Holiday Party, but because of the pandemic restrictions it was canceled like many events during the year.

Instead the drawing was done at the chamber's office with the video posted on the chamber's Facebook page.

The grand winner walked away with $5,000 and five other lucky winners won $200.

The chamber board voted Dec. 3 to split the proceeds 50/50 between the chamber and the Bloomingdale Township Food Pantry.

"It was a difficult year for everyone" said incoming chair Katie Bendis. "The chamber will be able to bounce back faster than many families."

The food pantry will be able to use the money to purchase perishable foods for the local families. Donations are always accepted at the food pantry at 123 Rosedale Ave, Bloomingdale.

Currently, the Bloomingdale Fire Protection District is running a food drive to help the local food pantries.

Donations can be dropped off at either of the Bloomingdale fire station lobbies or main entrances through Tuesday, Dec. 15.

The chamber plans to run the Grand Raffle in 2021 and hopes to be able to increase their fundraising and donation to the food pantry with the help and support from the community and chamber members.

The Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce supports the success and growth of businesses and the community.

Membership is open to any business who wants to invest in their own growth through promoting their business through marketing, sponsorships and building relationships. The chamber offers a variety of free and fee based events making it possible for members to get involved and be known.

For information, visit www.bloomingdalechamber.com.