Oak Park Mutual Aid Offers Needed Support Services

OAK PARK, IL — A local organization created to assist area residents impacted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic is seeking volunteers to help with the many ways the group serves those in need. Oak Park Mutual Aid, a coalition of neighbors dedicated to providing resources and raising funds to support area residents most affected by the coronavirus pandemic, has distributed more than $17,000 in aid during the pandemic, according to the coalition's website.

The organization's volunteer network provides the following support services for community members:

• Food assistance
• Medication/grocery pick up
• Limited financial assistance (up to $100)
• Wellness checks via telephone for family members and friends
• Referrals for mental health support and other services

Oak Park community member Jason Frankena has been volunteering with Oak Park Mutual Aid for the last few months, supporting neighbors most affected by the pandemic and the resulting economic fallout. Frankena told Patch he also delivers meals to Oak Park and River Forest seniors through the Oak Park Township Senior Services. Frankena said there are opportunities to help both organizations, and information can be found at oakparkmutualaid.com and oakparktownship.org/senior-services.

>> Donate, request aid or volunteer

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Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 54 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.

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