Englewood Group Raises Funds to Provide Toys and Essentials for Children in Need
A Community’s Effort to Bring Joy to Over 600 Children
For the ninth straight year, Servants for Hope, an Englewood organization, is raising funds to provide toys and other essential items to more than 600 kids by Christmas. The number of families registered for this year’s toy drive is much bigger than years past.
The Impact of the Economy on Families
To Deonte Tanner, CEO of Servants for Hope, it’s a sign of how the economy is impacting families this holiday season.
“It’s bittersweet knowing we are serving more people and we are expanding our outreach, but on the other side, are we going in the wrong direction as a society?” Deonte said.
Fundraising Efforts
Deonte and his team are fundraising to meet this year’s demand, working to meet a goal of $15,000. Within the last two days, with the help of Block Club Chicago, they’ve been able to raise $10,000.
Distribution of Gifts
Once the organization meets their goal, they head out to stores and fill up shopping carts to the very top with gifts that will be distributed to registered families on Saturday, December 21 at Englewood STEM High School.
A Personal Touch
Their first toy drives were organized at Deonte’s mother’s house.
“Very proud of my son,” Deonte’s mother Francis Tanner said. “Filled the whole house up with toys, clothes, shoes, everything. Essentials for families.”
Conclusion
Deonte’s determination to uplift those around him is inspiring, and his organization’s efforts are a testament to the power of community. With the help of donations, Servants for Hope is making a difference in the lives of over 600 children this holiday season.
FAQs
How can I donate? Anyone looking to donate can click here.
What is the goal of the toy drive? The goal is to raise $15,000 to provide toys and other essential items to over 600 children in need.
When will the gifts be distributed? The gifts will be distributed to registered families on Saturday, December 21 at Englewood STEM High School.
