A
tradition since 2000, Open Arms Mission provides Easter baskets to area children
who otherwise would receive nothing for Easter and to senior citizens, who are
often overlooked during this season.
"We are
able to purchase the needed items at volume pricing and rely on community
financial donations
to cover these costs,” said Marytherese Ambacher, director of the food pantry.
“We are fortunate to have long term partnerships with Lindenhurst Early
Childhood Center and Northern Illinois Scholarship Program who assist us by
assembling and distributing the baskets.”
Last year
a new partnership was established with students and faculty at Lakes Community
High School, who help assemble the baskets at the school.
These important partnerships help in
assembling and distribution of baskets filled with gifts, candy and healthy
snacks for food pantry, local social service agencies and hospitalized children.
The
majority of the baskets go to families who use the food pantry, to seniors at
four senior
residential homes and to Victory Lakes. Recipients all live in the Antioch, Lake
Villa and
Lindenhurst communities. Other agencies that support the welfare of children,
including A Safe Place, Big Brothers-Big Sisters, Nicasa Women’s Shelter and
Staben House will also receive baskets.