Christmas in the Wards: Speaker Welch’s Christmas Giveaway
HILLSIDE, Ill. – Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch is thrilled to host the inaugural Christmas in Proviso event on Thursday, December 23rd to help make the holidays a little brighter for families in need.
"The holidays should be a joyful time for everyone," said Speaker Welch. "We know that the pandemic exacerbated challenges for families who were already struggling and I'm so proud to know that this event will help those who need it most."
Traditionally, Christmas in the Wards (CITW) hosts a Christmas Spectacular giving away dozens of laptops, clothes, technology gifts, and over 10,000 toys at McCormick Place. Ahead of that event and to celebrate its 25th Anniversary, Christmas in the Wards has expanded its service area to include Proviso Township.
What began as grassroots fundraising has developed into a 501c3 non-profit organization supported by individuals, local businesses, and Fortune 500 companies. Each year, Christmas in The Wards serves Chicago's underserved families and children through giving the gift of Christmas.
WHO: Speaker Welch, Senator Lightford, along with mayors and elected officials from across the district
WHAT: The Christmas in Proviso event will host more than 100 need-based families to receive toys, gifts, and turkeys for their holiday celebrations.\
WHEN: Thursday, December 23 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Proviso West High School, Fieldhouse | 4701 West Harrison St. Hillside, IL
WHY: To support faith-based communities & marginalized families impacted by the pandemic