First Responder Support Signs Help Feed Frontline Workers

CHICAGO — More than 4,500 signs showing support for first responders during the coronavirus pandemic have been distributed in the 19th Ward neighborhoods of Mount Greenwood, Beverly and Morgan Park in recent weeks. The 19th Ward Office of Alderman Matt O'Shea has held a number of distribution events throughout the neighborhood and will host another from 10 a.m. until noon on Saturday, May 2 at Mother McAuley High School.

The signs, which cost $20 apiece, have been sold at Christ the King, St. John Fisher, St. Cajetan, St. Barnabas and St. Christina churches as well as the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences. They've been displayed outside a number of homes in the neighborhood and nearby suburbs.

Proceeds from the sign sales support the GoFundMe effort O'Shea began more than a month ago to support local businesses, first responders and medical workers during the pandemic. More than $141,000 has been raised through the GoFundMe as of May 1. Go here to donate.

RELATED: 19th Ward Effort To Help Amid Coronavirus Expands To Police And Fire Stations

Don't miss updates about precautions in Beverly, Mount Greenwood and Morgan Park as they are announced. Sign up for Beverly-Mt. Greenwood Patch news alerts and newsletters.

O'Shea and volunteers have used the money to purchase meals from local restaurants and deliver them to police stations, fire stations and hospitals in and near the neighborhood.

The alderman will join Mother McAuley President Mary Acker Klingenberger in the distribution event planned for Saturday.