Willie Wilson To Give Away Coupons For Gas, Food On Thursday

CHICAGO — Mayoral candidate Willie Wilson is giving away more of his personal wealth to folks suffering under the weight of inflation and high gas prices.

On Thursday, the businessman and long-time philanthropist is set to give away $25 coupons for food at Pete's Market and $2-a-gallon off gas at selection stations.

In a statement, Wilson said inflation was eroding the savings of many Americans, with lower-income families spending more than three quarters of their income on necessities like food and gasoline.

"I see and hear the pain of my fellow citizens and I must help," Wilson said.

On Wednesday, Wilson said city officials aren't allowing him to give away coupons for food at Chicago Public Housing senior citizen buildings. He urged seniors to meet him at one of the participating grocery stores or gas stations.

"I will not allow anything to deter my philanthropy to seniors or others in need," Wilson said.

The gas giveaways will start at 7 a.m. Thursday at the following locations in Chicago:

• BP, 6308 N. Central Ave.
• BP, 5949 W. Higgins Ave.
• BP, 3101 S. King Dr.
• Citgo, 1345 N. Pulaski Ave.
• Gulf, 9901 S. Halsted St.
• Marathon, 240 S. Sacramento Blvd.
• Mobile, 3201 N. Harlem Ave.
• Mobile, 2800 S. Kedzie Ave.
• Super Save, 48 E. Garfield Blvd.
• Super Save, 11100 S. State St.

More information about where Wilson will hand out $25 gift certificates for food is available online.