Last Chance to Support United Way’s ‘Home for the Holidays’ Drive

The United Way’s “Home for the Holidays” donation drive is nearing its conclusion, with only three days remaining for contributions. This initiative supports eight local United Way Impact Partners and aims to provide essential resources for families in need within Kankakee and Iroquois Counties. Executive Director Mariah Vail of United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties reported on Monday that the drive has received positive support this year, particularly with the partnership of the Daily Journal and Shaw Media.

“People have until the end of the week to donate the requested items,” Vail emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for community involvement. The United Way’s Stable Housing Fund has significantly impacted local housing and shelter efforts, investing over $143,000 over the past five years. Despite these efforts, the demand for assistance continues to grow.

Since January 2024, the local United Way’s 211 line has seen an influx of inquiries, with 698 residents from Kankakee and Iroquois Counties seeking housing support. This figure accounts for more than 40% of all local referrals made this year.

Ways to Contribute

Financial donations for the “Home for the Holidays” drive are currently being accepted through the United Way website. Interested individuals can visit https://www.myunitedway.org/housing to contribute. The webpage features a heartfelt testimonial from a client named “Ross,” who benefited from the Transitional Housing program provided by Catholic Charities. Ross shared his story about the challenges he faced after suffering a back injury in March 2024, which ultimately led to job loss.

With assistance from Fortitude, Ross secured housing for himself and his son, allowing them to reunite. “A week and a half later I had my son back in my arms and we were moving in,” Ross recounted. His gratitude for the support he received was evident, as he encouraged others to continue contributing to the program, stating, “Thank you very much for the help, and if you are able to continue supporting the program, it is very helpful.”

Essential Items Needed

To further aid the community, United Way has also specified several items that are urgently needed, including:

– Hygiene products
– Cleaning supplies
– Non-perishable foods, particularly protein items
– Warmth items, such as new coats, sleeping bags, blankets, hats, and gloves

For those wishing to donate physical items, several public drop-off locations are available, including:

– Wendy’s, 1740 W. Court St., Kankakee
– 495 N. Kinzie Ave., Bradley
– 599 William Latham Drive, Bourbonnais
– Bourbonnais Police Department, 700 Main St. NW
– Manteno Village Hall, 98 Third St.

For general donations, interested individuals can visit myunitedway.org/givenow. With the deadline approaching, the United Way encourages everyone to contribute to this crucial initiative to make a difference for families in need during the holiday season.