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, non-profit groups and individuals 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 approximately 291 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.
In addition to the Food Pantry, the Caring Hearts program also provides food for local families in need throughout the year. During the holidays, for a $20 donation, this program assembles the supplies for a full Christmas dinner for a local family. If you are interested in donating to this program, call Larry Veale at 593-9197.
Many of our local organizations sponsor programs for underprivileged 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 are sponsoring the ninth annual “Shop with a Cop” event on Sunday, December 13. Thirty underprivileged students, ranging from kindergarten through second grades from the O’Fallon schools were chosen to shop with a police officer for Christmas. Sworn officers, civilian employees and numerous volunteers all agree 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 12 at the O’Fallon Township High School Milburn Campus at 650 Milburn School Road in the cafeteria from 9 a.m. to noon. New to this year’s event is the addition of the Toys for Tots Toy Drive and a performance by the OTHS Madrigals at 10:30 a.m.
Children (up to 6th grade) will enjoy a pancake breakfast (while supplies last) while being entertained by the Grinch, 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 have their photo taken with Santa and photos will be emailed to parents free of charge. There is no admission fee for the event; however, donations of new, unwrapped toys will be accepted. Any cash donations received will be applied towards projects for the D.A.R.E. Program.
The O’Fallon Underwater Search and Recovery Team will hold its annual Christmas party for underprivileged children on Sunday, December 20. The group is collecting toys both new and slightly used for newborns to 10 years of age and will present them to the children during the party. Unwrapped toys may be dropped at O’Fallon City Hall, 255 S.Lincoln through December 18. 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 2010 is a wonderful year for you and your loved ones.
| 
