As the temperatures begin to drop, the Orland Park Public Library is helping to spread warmth to senior citizens in need.
The Orland Park Public Library has partnered with Pathlights, a nonprofit organization that serves older adults, for a fall blanket drive.
“As the cooler months approach, it’s heartwarming to see our community come together to support those who need it most,” said Sarah Kleiva, community engagement manager at the Orland Park Public Library. “At the library, we believe in the power of small acts of kindness, and through this blanket drive, we’re offering a tangible way to extend that warmth to older adults facing difficult times. We encourage everyone to participate and share in the spirit of giving.”
Blankets will be collected at the Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., through Oct. 30. Donations must be new and in their original packaging.
Since 1975, Pathlights has been committed to helping adults over 60, adults with disabilities, their caregivers, families, and friends along their journey through aging. Kleiva said they are proud to be part of this generous initiative.
“Every blanket donated is more than just a material item—it’s a message of care and compassion,” Kleiva said. “By partnering with Pathlights, we can make a direct impact on the lives of our older neighbors, ensuring they feel supported and seen during the cold months ahead. We’re honored to be part of this initiative and grateful for the generosity of our patrons.”
With Pathlights serving Orland Park and surrounding communities, library officials are confident that the drive will have a significant impact on the town.
“Retired older adults often live on a fixed income, and this area has a large population of older adults,” Kleiva said. “But even if the blanket drive helps only a few people this season, it was worth doing.”
“As a library, we are committed to inspiring imaginations, educating, entertaining, and creating a welcoming space for all,” Mary Adamowski, Orland Park Public Library director, said. “This partnership with Pathlights allows us to further that mission in a meaningful way. By collecting new blankets for older adults, we not only meet a community need but also foster stronger connections among our neighbors. Libraries are more than just repositories of books. We are community centers of compassion, connection, and care. We are proud to support an initiative that helps ensure our older residents stay warm and comfortable throughout the colder months.”
In addition to the Orland Park Public Library, blankets are being collected at other locations at:
- Pathlights’ main office, 1st floor, 7808 W. College Drive, Palos Heights.
- Hoyne Savings Bank, 1113 S. Harlem, Worth; Republic Bank, 8420 W. 171st St.
- Tinley Park; Lemont Library, 50 E. Wend St., Lemont.
- Oak Lawn Public Library, 9427 Raymond Ave., Oak Lawn.
- Sassy Girl Chalet Marketplace, 7224 W. College Drive, Palos Heights.
Debbie George, owner of Sassy Girl Chalet Marketplace in Palos Heights, emphasized the importance of the drive to her.
“It means a lot to do my part in keeping people warm; every blanket makes a difference,” George said.
According to Karen Young, corporate partnerships manager at Pathlights, the blankets will be delivered after Halloween and through December.
“The Orland Park Public Library is an amazing partner to Pathlights, assisting us in providing crucial educational programs to the older adults and caregivers residing in the community,” Young said. “We are so pleased to have them as a collection partner for our blanket drive this year.”
The Orland Park Public Library is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.