Green Hills Library Partners With BEDS Plus Collecting New Winter Gear For Unhoused

PALOS HILLS, IL — Green Hills Public Library has put up its “Giving Tree” to collect warm winter gear for people struggling with housing insecurity. Items will be accepted through Jan. 4 at the library.

The Giving Tree is part of an annual holiday effort in partnership with BEDS Plus to engage the community in making a difference in the lives of others. BEDS Plus adopts a housing first strategy to move shelter guests quickly into housing and help them stay housed through individualized case management. This year alone, BEDS Plus has assisted more than 5,800 people in the south and west suburbs of Cook County.

Library Director Jane Jenkins has seen the impact firsthand.

“The need is great, and unfortunately it’s something we see every day,” Jenkins said. “Through the Giving Tree campaign, and with our community’s generous participation, we hope to provide real support for those facing challenges.”

Requested donations include new coats, new hand warmers, new leggings and sweatpants, and low-denomination gift cards. Donations can be brought to the patron services desk of the Green Hills Public Library District building, at 10331 S. Interlochen Drive, Palos Hills.

All who donate will be given an ornament to place on the Giving Tree located in the first floor lobby. All items must be new; the library is unable to accept any used donations at this time.