The season of giving is in full swing in Park Forest.
The village will host a hat, scarf, and gloves giveaway this Saturday at Village Hall. Additionally, the village is giving away any remaining in-stock coats that are on hand. There will also be toys for people to choose from. Evelyn Randle, the staff liaison and runner for this volunteer group, said the village wanted to do something a little different this year.
"Last two years, we have given away coats and lots of toys," said Randle. "This year, we wanted to do something with a different twist. We are giving away a few coats that we had leftover in stock, along with a few we had to purchase."
Randall said with the first day of winter just two weeks away, it is important for the village to do whatever is possible to take care of those residents who are in need. She said this year's event was made possible by generous donations from local businesses.
"We received two checks from local businesses including PF Currency Exchange and Imageworks. These are two local businesses and they donate funds every year towards the cause," said Randle.
Randle said they are still taking donations before Saturday's giveaway. She said in years past, it was an overflow of coats given, along with money from local businesses and churches. She said this year, the village received a few hats and gloves but not many. Randle added, the village purchased a few items and used sponsor dollars for the remaining. She reiterated, if people would like to make donations before the event, they are welcome.
The hat, scarf, and glove giveaway is happening from 10 a.m. to Noon on Dec 10. in the lobby of Village Hall at 350 Victory Drive. Additionally, a free Park Forest Sweatshirt will be given to the first 100 participants. Additionally, hot chocolate and sweet treats will be available as well. Residents can click here for more information about the drive.
Randle said the village is excited to be able to help out those who are in need.
"We are just excited to bless those who are in need," Randle said. "Whether it is with a turkey, toys, coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. We're grateful for all of our sponsors who help the village help our residents."