GENERAL ASSISTANCE

Elk Grove Township invites local community members to attend the game and see who the winner of the ‘Cereal Bowl Trophy’ will be. The game begins at 7:00 p.m. at Elk Grove High School, 500 W. Elk Grove Boulevard in Elk Grove. During the 2018 competition, the two schools donated a combined 1,460 boxes, and the Elk Grove Grenadiers were the winning school – putting them at a 2-1 advantage in the annual contest. This year, the Rolling Meadows Mustangs are looking to tie up the competition! “We continue to be very proud of students from both high schools who recognize the need in our community relating to our food pantry,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “This competition represents a much larger mission that we accomplish every day at the Township; we are empowering people through community – and the Cereal Bowl competition is encouraging our young people to do just that.” Fans from each team are encouraged to bring boxes of cereal to the October 4th football game to support their team. Elk Grove Township representatives will be at the main gate to receive and tabulate donations dropped off at the game. Fans who cannot attend the game can drop off donations at the Elk Grove Township offices, 2400 S. Arlington Heights Road in Arlington Heights, until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 4th. When dropping of donations, donors should communicate which high school they are donating on behalf of. This friendly competition earns bragging rights for the winning side, along with an engraved traveling trophy that will remain at the winning school until next year’s competition. The donated cereal will be a part of the food distributed to the hundreds of Elk Grove Township residents that receive food pantry assistance each month at the Elk Grove Township Food Pantry. Cash donations will also be accepted but will not be tabulated as part of the competition. For more information, please call Elk Grove Township at 847-437-0300 or visit elkgrovetownship.com.

Usage at the food pantry from October 2019 through March 2020 has increased by 69%. The previous average families served per month was 250 which has now sharply risen to an average of 422 families over the last four months. The program is rolling out the double match days the weekend of Friday, September 11 and Saturday, September 12. When shoppers donate, Meijer will double the donation, giving the food pantry $20 for every $10 donated – on these two days only. Meijer has partnered with Elk Grove Township to ensure all donations that are generated remain in their local community. “Meijer has been helping our Township empower people through building a community of support to end hunger since the spring of 2016,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “The Township utilizes funds raised through this program to purchase meat, seldom donated items, or other vital supplies that are running low or have completely run out.” Donations are converted into a Meijer food-only gift card, and then donated directly to the food pantry, which allows flexibility to choose the grocery items that are best suited for the families that are served. Donations of any amount will be accepted and are greatly appreciated by the Township.   Meijer’s Simply Give program began in 2008 and is a signature fundraising effort for hunger relief efforts around the country. The program has generated more than $50 million, thanks to the store’s generous customers, team members and food pantry partners who are committed to making a difference in their communities. For more information, visit meijercommunity.com/simply-give or contact Izabela Szymanska via email at Iszymanska@elkgrovetownship.com or by calling 224-222-0945.

All food pantry users must make an appointment under this new model, which is required for the Township to maintain safety guidelines. These include steps to avoid waiting in lines, and limits to the number of people in the food pantry at any given time. Additionally, shoppers are required to wear face covers and hand sanitizer (provided by the Township) before entering. Township employees will also sanitize any common surfaces before new visitors enter.  “The Township has been working to ensure our residents feel comfortable and safe if they are in need of food,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “This is another example of how the Township is working to assist and empower our community members by providing additional assistance during unprecedented circumstances.” Those who wish to take advantage of the food pantry are issued food pantry cards, which expire every six months which are utilize to have them ‘check in’ when they arrive. If a resident needs a food pantry card or their current card has expired, please let the Township staff know when calling to schedule an appointment. Initially when Elk Grove Township residents apply for a food pantry card they are required to bring a photo ID, current utility bill and proof of all members in the household. To make an appointment to utilize the food pantry, please call 224-265-6111. Volunteers are needed to help keep up with the safety demands of the new food pantry system. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please call the number provided.  Save the Date for an Open House at Elk Grove Township’s New Location: Open House tours at the Township’s new Elk Grove location will take place on Thursday, August 6 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 8 from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Area residents will be able to tour the new facility, located at 600 Landmeier Road in Elk Grove Village,  and learn more about the food pantry, Youth Services Department, Adult and Family Counseling and Social Services Department.  Visit elkgrovetownship.com for more information.

Since March 23, 2020, more than 100 individuals have been safely sheltered in two area hotels at a cost of $18,000 per week, all thanks to the generosity of individuals, faith communities, and foundations – in addition to the Clerics of St. Viator, the United Way, and the IDHS COVID-19 Emergency Homeless Lodging Fund. JOURNEYS | The Road Home is extremely grateful to Elk Grove Township for a grant of $40,000 to support these shelter efforts. “We are so happy to provide this assistance to JOURNEYS | The Road Home to help ensure they can provide safe shelter for individuals who rely on their services,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “This is what Townships do; we provide support and assistance for individuals facing a variety of challenges in life, as we all work to empower the communities we serve.” In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, JOURNEYS | The Road Home has drastically adapted its supportive services to prevent the spread of the virus and protect JOURNEYS’ clients, staff, volunteers and its local communities. These changes are based on the most current guidelines and recommendations from medical partners, the CDC, and governmental agencies. To address the need to provide safe shelter and to provide a way for homeless clients to lessen their chance of being infected by COVID-19, JOURNEYS established an Emergency Hotel Placement Fund to provide hotel stays for clients for the duration of the pandemic safety precautions. As this pandemic crisis continues, JOURNEYS will continue to need additional funding to support ongoing efforts, in addition to traditional programs and services which serve the homeless and those at-risk of becoming homeless in its communities.  JOURNEYS expects an increased demand for its services in the near future, as the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect area communities. For more information on JOURNEYS, and how to help, please visit journeystheroadhome.org.

Meanwhile, Township bus services continue to transport elderly and disabled riders to doctor appointments, grocery stores and pharmacies within Elk Grove Township. Bus drivers are also regularly dropping off food for those registered for bus services. This transportation service is provided at no cost. To register, call the Transportation Department at 847-437-0300. The Township continues to offer financial assistance to help with rent, utilities and other emergency needs, which due to skyrocketing unemployment resulting from the pandemic and business closures, has grown exponentially. Applications are being taken over the phone by calling 224-265-6111. For those seeking new employment, virtual job assistance is available through the Employment Support Services Department. Residents can get help updating resumes and practicing interviewing skills, along with educational webinars related to finding a new job. Call 224-222-0935 for additional information. Complimentary counseling services are additionally available throughout the month of May for individuals who are dealing with challenges. Individual, child and family ‘teletherapy’ counseling is provided through secured video conferencing from licensed therapists. Call 847-981-0373 to learn more. “Through this pandemic, we are doing what we have always done, which is to empower our residents through our community, with many resources to help them through challenging times,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. Residents, businesses and organizations are invited to contact the Township to make a donation to the food pantry, schedule a convenient time for pick up by the Township truck, or to request a food delivery. Please call 224-265-6111 for more information.

Challenging times such as these can cause a variety of strain on individuals and families and result in feelings of isolation, fear, and elevated stress levels. Because counseling cannot be offered in person due to the Stay at Home order, teletherapy (video) counseling sessions are being provided instead – which is free for Township residents during the months of April and May. These sessions are completely confidential and secure, and compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Counseling is available for individuals and families, and can address a range of mental issues, including depression and anxiety, family conflicts, stress-related illnesses, and more. Therapists are trained to address child/teen issues including negative behavior, ADHD and spectrum disorders. To learn more and to schedule an appointment, please call the Youth and Family Services Department at 847-981-0373 and ask for Dean or Robin. “The Township is focused on empowering people who are experiencing challenges in life, and with the added stress of this pandemic, many of our residents need support now more than ever,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “The Township pursued the teletherapy option to comply with the Governor’s orders, while still providing what is a vital service for many individuals and families.” While counseling is being provided virtually, Township residents can still utilize the food pantry, which is now located at the Township’s new Elk Grove Village location, 600 Landmeier Road. The food pantry is available ‘drive-through’ Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon until 3:00 p.m. New users need to provide proof of residency with a driver’s license or state ID, and a copy of a current utility bill. Food pantry clients are asked to access this service via the west entrance of the building near the stoplight at Tonne Road. Please contact the Social Services Department at 847-437-0300. Other services include transportation on the Township bus for the elderly and disabled, which is limited to essential trips for dialysis and other medical appointments, in addition to grocery stores and pharmacies. The Township Assessor’s Office is also fully staffed and available via phone to answer real estate tax questions. For more information and to learn how to access services, please call 847-437-0300 or visit elkgrovetownship.com.

Fees for counseling are available on a sliding scale, and staff is specially trained to address child/teen issues including negative behavior, ADHD (screening also available), as well as spectrum disorders. “The Township is focused on empowering people who are experiencing challenges, and our new counseling services aim at strengthening bonds between family members to ultimately strengthen the community,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. In addition, counseling, other programs are detailed below: Financial Assistance for In-Need Individuals and Families: In addition to counseling, Township residents can qualify for assistance with utilities through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), ComEd Hardship, Nicor Sharing, the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) and others. The Community Empowerment Fund is a 501(c)3 corporation and exists to assist residents experiencing other financial challenges not provided for through other programs. Health Services – Dental Clinic, Prescription Cards and Access to Care: Health Assistance offered through the Township includes Access to Care, the Mobile Dental Clinic and the Prescription Drug Discount Card. Access to Care is a non-profit health care program for uninsured and under insured individuals living in Cook County. The Mobile Dental Clinic, in partnership with Northwest Community Healthcare, offers dental care for low income residents by providing just a $30 co-pay for adults; there is no charge for children. The Coast2Coast Prescription Card is available free of charge and can save families up to 75% off their prescriptions. More than 60,000 pharmacies participate in this program and the card includes pet medications, as well. Residents can register for the program and download a card from the Township website at elkgrovetownship.com/community-links/. Transportation Assistance for Seniors and Disabled: Elk Grove Township offers bus and taxi services for disabled residents over 18 and senior citizens. These curb-to-curb services give residents a safe way to get to appointments or to run errands. Senior citizen bus trips are also available, which provides opportunities for seniors to enjoy an outing in a social environment where they can make new friends. Food Pantry: The food pantry is open to all in-need Township residents and can help to meet basic nutritional needs. When initially utilizing the food pantry, individuals must meet with a caseworker to verify residency and to identify circumstances that caused them to need assistance. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Employment Support Services: The Employment Support Center offers residents assistance with resumes, impactful introductory emails, LinkedIn profile critiques, and periodic career seminars and workshops along with mock interviews and an employment counselor to help individuals prepare to enter the job market.  Computer stations are also available for job searches and to submit applications. In addition to the services listed above, the Township also offers passport processing, hunting and fishing licenses, voter registration, notary services and a community resource board. For more information, please call the Township at 847-437-0300 or visit elkgrovetownship.com.

This model allows individuals to ‘self-select’ items, instead of receiving pre-packaged food. Since everyone’s tastes are different, those who utilize the food pantry will be able to choose their preferred food selections, and the Township will be able to better manage ordering and inventory, all of which will lead to less waste. Additional space in the new location will accommodate a commercial walk-in refrigerator and freezer section, allowing the Township to accept more donations–including those of fresh fruits and vegetable. In the current building, these donations have to be turned away due to the lack of space and facilities. “It can be very challenging and a matter of pride for people to admit they are struggling and need help; the food pantry is open to all Elk Grove Township residents and can provide a hand up to assist them during difficult times,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. Upon utilizing the food pantry, individuals meet with a Township caseworker to verify residency, and to determine challenges that have caused them to need to utilize this assistance. Additional services through the Township, including home energy bill relief through LIHEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program), the employment center, counseling services and more, can be offered to help the individual, as well as family members, if needed. “We are proud to take a holistic approach to help address the challenges that people experience in life. Our staff works to get to the root of the problem, in an effort to ultimately empower people,” Sweeney said. The planned expansion of the food pantry is made possible in part by generous donations made through the Elk Grove Township Community Empowerment Fund, a 501(c)3 that that helps to provide emergency assistance for residents when needed. The Township is seeking corporate donors and local businesses to join this program. Please call 847-437-0300 and ask for Paul Pioch or Lisa Menich. The new Elk Grove Township location is the result of a consolidation effort to bring all services provided by the Township under one roof, which previously have been provided in different buildings. The goal is not only to lower the cost of operations, but also to improve the services offered to Township residents. For more information, visit elkgrovetownship.com.

While the Rolling Meadows Mustangs won the football game against the Elk Grove Grenadiers by a final score of 41-14, Elk Grove was triumphant in the Cereal Bowl IV competition. In all, donations resulting from this food collection event totaled 2,209 boxes of cereal, which is 750 boxes more, or a 51-percent increase, compared to donations collected in 2018. “It is truly incredible to see how hard everyone worked to help others who are less fortunate by increasing their donation and collection efforts,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “We can’t begin to express our thanks to everyone who made Cereal Bowl IV a huge success this year.” The results are a win-win-win; for the Mustangs, the Grenadiers and the families of Elk Grove Township who utilize the food pantry on a monthly basis. Each month, an average of 230 families who are experiencing hunger are served by the food pantry. The Cereal Bowl competition was established in 2016 to raise awareness about hunger in Elk Grove Township, and to draw attention to the ongoing need to keep the shelves of the food pantry stocked. The Elk Grove Township Social Services Department estimates the cereal box donations collected this year through Cereal Bowl IV will provide this food staple for in-need families until next summer. Please contact the Elk Grove Township Social Services Department at 847-437-0300 or email ga@elkgrovetownship.com if you need assistance, would like to make a donation, or to learn more about support efforts to end hunger in the local community.

Social ServicesThe newly named Social Services Department (formerly General Assistance) was originally created to administer General Assistance only, but over time, the Township has added dozens of new programs including financial assistance, the food pantry, holiday giving programs, employment counseling, information and referrals services, and more. Due to this program expansion, the department was renamed to better reflect the services offered to the community. The Youth Services DepartmentPreviously called Youth and Family Services – had humble beginnings in the early 1970s and addressed counseling needs and positive interactions for teens. In recent years and due to growing needs, the Township expanded these services to include all types of groups for young people ages seven through high school. Many of them are offered at District 59 schools and provided by Elk Grove Township Youth Services. Additionally, summer programs, including Girls Empowerment groups, Social Skills groups, and the ‘challenge course’ that teaches these young people how to effectively work and communicate in groups, are also offered. These programs now have their own, dedicated department name as they continue to thrive and grow. Adult and Family Counseling DepartmentWhile the Township continues to address the needs of the children through family counseling, these services are now available to individual adults on a sliding fee scale. What was previously known as the Youth and Family Services Department is now called the Adult and Family Counseling Department. Fulfilling the Township’s Mission“Elk Grove Township remains committed to providing services our residents need so that they can become empowered and get back on their feet in many cases,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “We are proud of these additions and changes, which help us to better align our services with our core mission to empower our residents through services offered to the Township community.” Please visit elkgrovetownship.com for more information on all of the programs and services available or call 847-437-0300.