This season you can make a difference.
This holiday season take time to donate any food, funds, time or clothing in one of McHenry Counties several non-profit organizations.
The Crystal Lake food pantry is in great need of donations. For all that the food pantry does, it’s time to give back this season and help the less fortunate. Prairie Ridge student Zach Dwyer talks about his experience giving back to the community. “It felt good knowing that I was giving back and helping out the homeless,” He continues, “I helped package a Thanksgiving dinner for a family in need. We were done before I knew it and the whole packaging food didn’t take long at all.”
Volunteering at the food pantry is a great way to give back and provide a meal for those living in poverty. According to the Crystal Lake food pantry, 66% of household incomes of those being served are below the official federal poverty line just in Crystal Lake. Hunger impacts many in the community and any donations or time volunteering is very much appreciated.
The organization, Toys for Tots will also take any donations this holiday season. Toys for Tots collects donations in many ways, including new or old toys, money donations, and there is also an option to request a toy to buy for a child in need. Local stores such as Kohls will be benefiting the organization.
There are also many stores like Home of the Sparrow or Goodwill that will take any donations. “Donating is what makes this world go around” says senior Sydney McNally, “it warms the soul.”
Any effort made to contribute is major. Instead of throwing away old clothing, take it to a shelter where someone will be appreciative to be warm in the cold Illinois temperatures. Winter coats are always greatly appreciated and other sorts of winter clothing as well. There is also a large box located in the front lobby of Prairie Ridge that collects any old winter coats as well, taking donations for the Coat-A-Kid foundation.
If looking for different ways to volunteer time or money, the Mchenry County PADS is always looking for a hand. The Public Action to Deliver Shelter, or commonly known as PADS, has seven emergency church shelters for the homeless and provides more than 20,000 meals yearly. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Contact [email protected] to find out more ways to help.
This holiday season you can make a difference by participating in your community. There is so much to offer that others would greatly benefit from. Not only are shelters in need this time of year, but year round they need the community’s attention. Awareness of homelessness is necessary for the community to grow. There are several non-profit organizations centers that need funds, volunteers, and donations. Don’t pass up several great opportunities to give back before it’s too late.