Sign up for Wheeling Township's Adopt-A-Family program by Nov. 1

The magic and joy of the holiday season is just around the corner, and for many families it can be a stressful and financially challenging time.

Residents wishing to make a difference in the lives of those in need can brighten a family's holiday season by purchasing gifts as part of Wheeling Township's annual Adopt-A-Family Program.

The AFP matches local low-income families with giving donors who help to fulfill holiday wish lists.

"This community's generosity never ceases to astound me," said Wheeling Township Supervisor Kathleen Penner. "Year after year, Wheeling Township residents come together to help their neighbors, but especially at this time of year. This is an amazing place to live."

If buying and wrapping gifts for a local family sounds appealing, donors (individuals, organizations or businesses) can register to participate in this program. The township matches them with families and asks that they spend between $75 and $100 per family member.

Donors may choose the size of the family they wish to "adopt." While the identity of recipients remains confidential, donors do know they are helping to brighten the holidays for those who may be struggling.

If you are interested in being an AFP donor, residents should download a form from wheelingtownship.com, fill it out and fax it to (847) 259-1570 or mail it to Wheeling Township AFP, 1616 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.

If preferred, the form (and any questions) can also be scanned and emailed to GA@WheelingTownship.com. The deadline to apply is Nov. 1.

Once a match is made, donors will be provided with detailed wish lists, including clothing sizes, toy ideas and gift suggestions. Donors are asked to wrap and deliver the gifts to the township office on a preassigned date. Last year, this program brought holiday joy to 269 families, which included 691 children.

For more information, email Wheeling Township's General Assistance Department at GA@WheelingTownship.com.

Wheeling Township provides a variety of services and giving programs throughout the year for qualifying individuals and families who reside in the township, including Emergency Assistance, help with heating bills and access to the food pantry.

Additionally, there is transportation for the elderly and disabled, home-delivered meals, a Mobile Dental Clinic and other year-round giving programs.

There are 155,000 residents who live in Wheeling Township, which incorporates all or part of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Northbrook, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows and Wheeling.

For information, visit wheelingtownship.com or call (847) 259-7730.

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