Neighbors Continue Helping Neighbors in Wheeling Township

Wheeling Township's motto, "Neighbors Helping Neighbors," is more than just a saying; it's a mission that is fulfilled on a yearly basis through an abundance of services and programs available to residents. In addition to helping seniors, persons with disabilities, and residents experiencing financial challenges, Wheeling Township also has many opportunities for residents to give back through donations and volunteerism.

"Year after year, I remain astounded by the generosity of our residents," said township Supervisor Kathleen Penner. "Their incredible donations of Thanksgiving baskets stuffed with food, beautifully wrapped toys and gifts for the Adopt-A-Family program and year-round Food Pantry donations are both amazing and inspiring. All of these generous efforts show that we care about each other in this township."

Some of the many ways residents received assistance in 2021, or provided help to those in need included:

Food Pantry: Throughout the year, 7,512 people were fed (1,414 were children under 18). The township is grateful for the substantial monthly donations from private citizens, businesses and organizations. Many businesses, churches and organizations also held food drives throughout the year.

Home Delivered Meals: There were 14,689 nutritious meals delivered to homebound seniors and permanently disabled individuals last year. The efforts and dedication of the many volunteers and 25 churches involved in the delivery of the fresh meals, five days a week, including on holidays, is sincerely appreciated.

Giving Garden: Residents with "green thumbs" donated hundreds of pounds of fresh vegetables during the summer season to supplement shelf-stable products in the food pantry.

Thanksgiving: A holiday meal was provided to 370 lower income families. Residents and community groups donated covered containers overflowing with everything from rolls and stuffing to potatoes and dessert. Hundreds of donated gift cards and frozen turkeys were also distributed.

Adopt-A-Family: The annual holiday gift program served 269 families, and thanks to the generosity of township residents, community groups and businesses, wish lists of those families were fulfilled. Each family received wrapped gifts and donated gift cards as part of their holiday package. Additionally, all the children were offered new books (donated by the Arlington Heights Memorial Library) and craft kits made by the Indian Trails Public Library District.

Winter Coat Program: New coats, hats, gloves and scarves were distributed to 123 children. Many items were donated, while others were purchased with donated funds.

Military: Students and residents donated more than 1,500 beautiful handmade cards or handwritten letters as part of the township's Operation Support Our Troops annual donation drive. Additionally, residents donated $3,700 to the organization to support the cost of mailing care packages.

Wheeling Township is indebted to its many residents who remain compassionately dedicated to focusing on their neighbors in need - every year. By providing beneficial services to residents in need, and to those wishing to maintain their independence, Wheeling Township continues to make a significant difference in the community- as it has since 1850.

For information, contact Wheeling Township at (847) 259-7730 or visit www.wheelingtownship.com.