In an effort to help the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD), Rose Paving Company and Chicago Fire Soccer will be partnering in the 1st Annual Steamroll Hunger Food Drive that kicks off next Monday, Aug. 21. During this month-long event, both organizations will join forces to collect and contribute non-perishable food items to the GCFD as a friendly way to help neighbors in need.
"Supporting charitable programs such as the Greater Chicago Food Depository is of tremendous importance to our company," said Alan Rose, President of Rose Paving. "We're looking forward to working with the Chicago Fire and encouraging all our staff, family, friends, and soccer fans to bring in donations so that our 1st Annual Steamroll Hunger Food Drive is a success!"
Donations will be accepted Aug. 21 through Sept. 25, and can be dropped off at Rose Paving's headquarters (7300 W. 100th Place) or TOYOTA PARK (TOYOTA PARK Drive; 7000 S. Harlem Ave), both located in south suburban Bridgeview. In addition, the Chicago Fire will also be collecting non-perishable goods at TOYOTA PARK entrance gates at each of the club's six scheduled MLS regular season and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup games during the month-long Steamroll Hunger food drive. After Monday night's 2-0 Fourth Round win over the Kansas City Wizards, the Fire will begin it's game-day collections for the cause on Wednesday, Aug. 23rd when it takes on the New England Revolution in a U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinal match-up.
"We recognize there are numerous Chicagoans who go hungry every day," said Donald Ortale, Fire Senior Director of Community Relations. "Our goal is to reach out and help those in need by collecting 1,000 pounds of food or more. If everyone gives back a little bit, it will add up significantly."
Surrounding communities, businesses, and soccer enthusiasts are encouraged to donate items in need such as canned meats, soups, fruits, and vegetables; peanut butter; rice; pasta; cereal; and 100% fruit juice. All non-perishable foods will be accepted. Please, no homemade foods or items in glass containers. If you are able to assist the endeavor to Steamroll Hunger in any way, please contact Cheryl Feldner at 708-430-1100 or by e-mail at cfeldner@rosepaving.com.
Close to 500,000 people each year rely on emergency and supplemental food provided by the GCFD and its member network of almost 600 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. That figure represents a significant increase over previous studies conducted by the Food Depository and reflects census trends of poverty in Cook County.
