Orland Township In Need Of Holiday Gift Items, Helping Residents

ORLAND TOWNSHIP — The Orland Township needs help making the holidays a little brighter for local families. The township is asking residents to donate to its holiday program, by dropping off items at the donation drive-thru scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 1.

The Township’s Holiday Program has been assisting local families experiencing financial difficulties for more than 30 years. Through the generous spirit of the community – civic groups, individuals, and local businesses – Orland Township’s Holiday Program annually provides a holiday meal, gifts, clothing and other personal items to more than 200 local families who are experiencing hardship.

This year, Orland Township is requesting extra assistance in filling the gift lists. Due to pandemic hardships the need is greater. And with so many schools and civic groups not meeting in person, donations from these groups are down, according to the township.

“While the holiday season is a joyous time to celebrate with family and friends, there are some members of our community who are in need of assistance, especially this year,” said Orland Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady. “On behalf of those families, we ask that you share your holiday spirit by donating to the Orland Township Holiday Program. Your generosity will help make the season a little brighter for one of our less fortunate neighbors.”

Donations of new, unwrapped items are needed. There is always a need is for gift items for pre-teens, teens and adults. The township suggests the following:

• Winter clothing in teen and adult sizes
• Grooming / shaving kits
• Hygiene products (body washes and lotions, shampoos, deodorants)
• Beauty supplies (make-up, perfumes/colognes, hair supplies, nail kits)
• Craft kits (jewelry making, art supplies, STEM for middle and high school)
• Stress relieving activity kits (coloring books for adults, paint-by-number sets)
• Board games / puzzles
• Blankets

According to the township, non-perishable food items will also be accepted during the donation drive-thru.

The Holiday Program Donation Drive-Thru will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Orland Township office, 14807 S. Ravinia Ave., Orland Park. Township personnel will be on hand to unload donations from residents’ vehicles.

For information on the Orland Township Holiday Program, including how to participate in the Giving Tree or the Adopt-A-Family program, contact Orland Township at (708) 403-4222 or visit the website.