The COVID-19 pandemic has canceled many local events, but the Holiday Food Basket Drive is not one of them. Run by the Park Ridge Kiwanis Club in conjunction with Park Ridge-Niles School District 64, the Drive will kick off Monday, October 26.
“Because of all that’s happened this year, the need is greater than ever in our community,” said Kiwanis Member and Park Ridge Police Chief Frank Kaminski. “We’re hoping that everyone steps up and supports those in need. Even the smallest of donations will help.”
There are about 150 families in need throughout District 64 this year. The goal is to present a Mariano’s gift card for at least $100 to as many of those families as possible.
Families are selected based on the Fee Waiver Policy / Evaluation used by District 64. Using the federal guidelines for low-income, families are eligible if they have an annual income of $27,729 for a family of three or $39,221 for a family of five.
Like last year, there will be no single fundraising event. The group will again rely on all donations - either through its website: www.kiwanisPR.org, or directly to: Kiwanis Holiday Food Basket Fundraiser, c/o Frank Kaminski, 200 S. Vine, Park Ridge, IL 60068.
The gift card for Mariano’s grocery store will have restrictions on what can be purchased; additionally, Mariano’s will provide a coupon for a ham and pie as part of the basket.
The Kiwanis Foundation of Park Ridge is exempt from Federal Income Tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code so contributions may be tax deductible. The campaign will end on Friday, Nov. 20. Holiday Food Baskets will be distributed the week of December 14.