Bloomingdale Chamber donates $800 to St. Isidore Parish from gingerbread house parade

Posted January 15, 2025 8:14 pm

By Cindy Allston, Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce

The Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce’s annual Parade of Gingerbread Houses was a success with the program raising $800 for St. Isidore Parish to support their work with DuPage PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter).

This festive holiday initiative brought together local businesses and the Bloomingdale community to celebrate creativity and the spirit of giving.

The program featured 19 businesses decorating gingerbread houses, which were displayed for residents to admire. Community members followed a map to visit the festive decorated houses and cast their votes for their favorite by placing a donation in the ballot box.

This year's top fundraiser, CodaBears Inc., raised nearly half the total donations, making a significant contribution to the cause.

The funds raised will directly support St. Isidore Parish in its ongoing commitment to helping DuPage PADS, an organization dedicated to aiding the homeless population of DuPage County.

St. Isidore Parish provides weekly meals, collects essential supplies, and actively works to foster sustainable assistance for those in need.

“St. Isidore Catholic Church is committed to helping DuPage PADS in fostering aid to help the homeless in DuPage County. There constant commitment in helping the homeless and the less fortunate is in line with the beliefs and values of St. Isidore Parish,” said Dan Tobin, director of administration of St. Isidore Parish. “On behalf of everyone that gave to this fundraiser and the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce. We thank you and may God bless you in the new year.”

Coda Bears’ winning gingerbread house was made all of edible material, except for the screen picture. The Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce’s annual Parade of Gingerbread Houses raised money for DuPage PADS. Courtesy of Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce

The Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participating businesses, residents, and donors who contributed to the program's success. Together, the community demonstrated the power of creativity, collaboration, and compassion during the holiday season.

“Programs like the Parade of Gingerbread Houses showcase the generosity of our community and highlight the incredible partnerships between local businesses and organizations like St. Isidore Parish,” said Cindy Allston, chamber president. “We're thrilled to see the community come together for such a meaningful cause. I hope to see more of you voting in 2025!”

For more information about the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce and its community programs, visit BloomingdaleChamber.com.

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