A Weekly Note from Mayor Gary L. Graham
“Traditional Values, Progressive Thinking”
With the holiday season in full swing, I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all the local charities and non-profit groups in our community who work hard throughout the year, and especially during the holidays, to provide programs and items for those less fortunate.
The O’Fallon Community Food Pantry, located near O’Fallon Township offices on East State Street, is one of those groups. They are currently feeding over 188 families per month in the O’Fallon/Shiloh area and are constantly in need of non-perishable food and monetary donations. Donations are accepted year round at 801 East State Street.
Many of our local organizations sponsor programs for needy children that provide these children with a little extra cheer at Christmas. The O’Fallon Police Department, Fraternal Order of Police #198 and the O’Fallon Wal-Mart store sponsored the fifth annual “Shop with a Cop” event on Sunday, December 9th. Numerous needy students, ranging from kindergarten through fifth grades from the O’Fallon schools were chosen to shop with a police officer for Christmas. Sworn officers, civilian employees and numerous volunteers all agreed that this is a very heart-warming event for all who participate.
The O’Fallon Police Department’s D.A.R.E. Program will be holding their annual “Breakfast with Santa” on Saturday, December 15th at the O’Fallon Township High School cafeteria from 9 a.m. to noon. Children (up to 6th grade) will enjoy a pancake breakfast (first 500 guests) while being entertained by clowns, animal balloon making, face-painting and crafts. Santa will also be on hand to hear the children’s wishes for Christmas. A photographer will be available for those who would like to purchase pictures. There is no admission fee for the event, however, donations of new, unwrapped toys will be accepted and distributed throughout O’Fallon. Any cash donations received will be applied towards projects for the D.A.R.E. Program.
The Underwater Search and Recovery Team will hold its annual Christmas party for needy children on Sunday, December 23rd. The group is collecting toys both new and slightly used for newborns to 12 years of age through December 21st and will present them to the children during the party. The children will also have the opportunity to have their photos taken with Santa Claus.
Other local charitable programs that occur over the holidays include Toys for Tots, the Salvation Army Tree of Lights bell ringers, and numerous organizations that collect food and clothing for the needy.
It is through the dedication of these groups and the community’s generosity that numerous families in O’Fallon will experience a happy and peaceful holiday season. These tireless efforts are yet another example of why O’Fallon is such a great community in which to live. Happy holidays to everyone, and it is my prayer that 2008 is a wonderful year for you and your loved ones.
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