No Housewares For Sertoma After COVID-19 McCormick Cancellation

ALSIP, IL — The rippling effect of the International Housewares Association calling off the Inspired Home Show amid coronavirus concerns that was to have take place this month has negatively impacted a local charity. Sertoma Centre, of Alsip, which serves adults living with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, and mental illness, has called off its annual super sale fundraiser that sells vendor products from the show to the public.

For 17 years Sertoma Centre has been one of six local charities chosen to receive products and home goods donated by the housewares show. With the help of 300 volunteers, the Super Sale attracted hundreds of shoppers eager to buy name-brand housewares and home decor. Proceeds went to Sertoma's vocational, job training, residential and social support programs for 2,000 adult clients. The Sertoma Super Sale had originally been scheduled for April 4-5.

In a statement posted on Sertoma’s Facebook page, executive director Gus van den Brink said news of the Inspired Home Show’s cancellation was met with a lot of mixed emotions.

“We understand the difficult decision the International Housewares Association faced and commend them for airing on the side of caution and putting everyone’s safety first. The ripple effects of this decision will be felt by many, and include one very close to home. Sertoma Centre relies on the donations of the Inspired Home Show vendors to put on our Super Sale. This sale brings in nearly $100,000 in program funds for our individuals with disabilities.”

The International Housewares Show announced Monday that it was cancelling the Inspired Home Show, one of Chicago’s major annual trade shows at McCormick Place, amid concerns over the coronavirus outbreak in the United States. Originally set for March 14-17, the show was expected to draw 60,000 visitors and 2,100 exhibitors from 45 countries. The show was also projected to bring $77 million in spending in Chicago, including hotels, restaurants, transportation and entertainment. More than 47,000 rooms at Chicago hotels had also been booked.

The Inspired Home Show is the first major trade show in Chicago to be canceled. Similar events were canceled in Denver and Houston. Despite the growing number of coronavirus cases in the United States, COVID-19 risk in Illinois is still considered low, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“The Super Sale is one of our major fundraisers. Now that the show has been canceled, we don’t have anything to sell,” Sertoma spokeswoman Susan Barnett said. “We understand it was a difficult decision to cancel. Chicago is out millions of dollars. Unfortunately it does impact our agency. It’s sad all the way around.”

Sertoma’s next big event is the Heroes Cook-Off on May 16 at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park, where first responders and military veterans and service members whip up barbecued ribs, chicken ethnic dishes, chili and more for trophies and bragging rights. The family-friendly event features music, entertainment and kids’ activities, plus the chance to sample some delicious food.