Community Corner

Niles-Park Ridge Crop Proves Successful in Helping Feed the Hungry

Some people walked as much as six miles to raise money for the hungry.


By Dick Barton

One of the ways that people help people is feeding them when they are hungry and too often out of options themselves. For the 22nd year, the Niles-Park Ridge Crop Walk brings together caring citizens from the two towns to walk as much as six miles. 

This weekend the hundreds of walkers were blessed with cool, sunny weather. Most walkers came from area churches. You could see the pride in their banners and the signs they carry but mostly you see the pride they take in their eyes and the smiles. They knew they were doing a good thing. 

One of those participating churches was St. John Brebeuf of Niles. Deacon Andy Beierwaites led a group of parishioners in this worthy effort. Left to right in the photo are Deacon Andy, Dorothy Mieczkowski, John Sypniewski, Evan Beierwaites, Diane Latessa and Andrew Latessa. Others not shown also walked for SJB. 

About 25% of the proceeds raised go to the Maine Township Food Pantry which serves all residents in the Township regardless if they live in the incorporated borders of one of the cities such as Park Ridge or the large unincorporated area between those borders. 

According to Carol Teschky, Supervisor of Maine Township, residents of Niles and Park Ridge are well served with food from the township operation. She notes that donations of cash and food come from every corner of the township and the benefits to those in need are distributed to everyone in Maine Township with the help of a full-time pantry coordinator, Carol Langan. Maine Township is one of the few pantry operations that also has freezers which come in handy when frozen turkeys are donated for the holiday dinners the Township gives away. 

For information on donations or the food pantry operation, call 847-297-2510 or visit www.mainetownship.com


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