Orland Township Program Collects Over 400 Easter Baskets

ORLAND PARK, IL — Throughout the end of March, Orland Township residents helped make Easter a bit more special for local children in need.

The Township’s annual Easter Basket Program encouraged the public to donate Easter baskets for Township families in need. Members of the community, including families, seniors, girl scout troops, and local businesses were among the many who contributed personalized baskets for boys and girls of all ages. Over 400 baskets were collected for the 2023 program, more than the Township has ever seen.

Students across the southland had the opportunity to make a positive impact in their community by contributing Easter baskets, in return for service hours. While there was a set limit for the number of hours a student could receive, some went above and beyond in their donation despite.

Tinley Park High School's Key Club was looking to provide some support and fun to families in the community. After spending some time searching for ways to give back locally, they came across Orland Township’s Easter Basket Program.

“Tinley Park High School's Key Club consists of very hard-working, kind, and thoughtful students.” Said Key Club sponsor Janna Anderson. “Most students went above and beyond with their donations to our Easter Basket event. These students enjoy giving back to the community, especially those who are less fortunate.”

While the purpose of the program was to give back to those in need, it also provided donors with the chance to bond with their friends and families while crafting their baskets.

“There was great camaraderie amongst the members while working on the Easter Baskets,” Anderson stated. She went on to say that the students ended up exceeding their donation goal and were able to contribute 22 baskets: full of items like stuffed animals, books (coloring, reading, activity, etc.), crayons, and candy.

“The Easter Basket Program is just one of our many services to help local families in need,” said Supervisor Paul O’Grady. “What we do is made possible by the generous members of our community. We sincerely thank each and every person who decided to donate to this program.”

Residents were able to sign up to receive baskets by visiting the Orland Township Food Pantry, located at 14807 S. Ravinia Ave., and filling out an application. For more information on programs, services, and events being held at Orland Township, visit the website, orlandtownship.org, or call (708) 403-4222. Be sure to like the Orland Township Facebook page for more updates.