As families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, volunteers from the Evergreen Park Food Pantry are stepping up to support those in need.
Evergreen Park Trustees Carol Kyle and Mark Phelan have been leading efforts to collect food and clothing for residents facing hard times. They are joined by the Village Pantry Coalition, established in 1981 by local churches, village representatives, community organizations, and residents. Since its inception, the coalition has distributed more than $620,000 worth of food to over 5,500 families. The pantry operates from the former Howatt Fire Station at 2704 W. 98th Place.
During Monday’s Evergreen Park Village Board meeting, Phelan acknowledged the contributions of Most Holy Redeemer Elementary School students, along with Trustee Jeannie Olson, during the school’s Harvest Sunday event.
“I want to thank everyone who helped out and stepped up,” Phelan said.
Kyle noted that Aero students also participated in the effort. Mayor Kelly Burke expressed gratitude for the trustees, students, and volunteers. “I want to thank Trustee Kyle and Trustee Phelan for all they do for the food pantry,” Burke said.
In other news, village officials presented Bianca Yepez, an employee at The Barn at Sexton Park, with the “Employee of the Quarter” award for her dedication to caring for animals and her rapport with residents, particularly children. “
“Bianca is an outstanding employee who was willing to take on added responsibilities,” Burke said. “She welcomes students in English and Spanish, making Spanish-speaking students feel at ease.”
Trustee Mark Marzullo announced his retirement from the family business, Marzullo Supply, which will transition to new ownership under the name Marzullo/GW Berkheimer at 8833 S. Kedzie Ave.
Marzullo plans to assist with the change in ownership while continuing his service on the board.
Reflecting on the family’s 71-year business history in Evergreen Park, he said, “Everyone who comes to Evergreen Park wants to because it is a great place to be.”
At Monday’s meeting, trustees:
- Authorized the purchase of three police vehicles for $135,057.
- Approved additional parking for Wu’s House, 2958 W. 95th St.
- Approved the sale of properties at 2733 W. 97th St. and 9516 S. Homan Ave.
Officials also reminded residents of coming events, including:
- Youth Coat Drive: Donations of new or gently used coats can be dropped off at the Community Center, 3450 W. 97th St., or Village Hall, 9418 S. Kedzie Ave., through November.
- Charity Fundraiser: A benefit for Patrick Juarez will take place at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Barraco’s Pizza, 3701 W. 95th St. For details, contact Jim Maloney at 708-261-3880.
- Holiday Closures: Village Hall will be closed on Nov. 28 and 29 for Thanksgiving.
- Santa’s Wonderland and Reindog Parade: Scheduled from 2 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 7 at the Community Center. The Klein Park Tree Lighting follows at 6 p.m.
- Yard Waste Pickup: The last collection, weather permitting, will be Dec. 13. Residents should use green containers or brown paper bags for leaves.
- Holiday Concert: Rich Daniels and the City Lights Orchestra will perform “Sounds of the Season” from 7 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 15 at Most Holy Redeemer Church, 9525 S. Lawndale Ave. Tickets are available at the Recreation Department, 3450 W. 97th St., or by calling 708-229-3373.