Parkland to Host Holiday Drive, Single-Parent Outreach Event

The event is in partnership with many local leaders

The Child Development Center (CDC) at Parkland College is hosting a holiday food, toy, and clothing drive and resource fair to support single student-parents in need.

Students, staff, and community members are encouraged to drop off items at the CDC lobby until November 30. Requested donation items include:

• shelf-stable foods like canned goods, pasta, cereal, peanut butter, rice, etc.
• new and gently used toys, puzzles or books for children ages 0–5
• new and gently used clothing for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers

All donations will be sorted and distributed discreetly to local families before the holidays. There will also be a free outreach event for single student-parents on Saturday, November 22. From 9–11 a.m., participants can connect with local resources and receive some supplies from the drive.

Registration is required. Sign up now at the CDC (G building) or at Parkland Student Life in U111.

"I’m excited to offer Parkland’s single-parent students a stress-free, welcoming event that connects them with resources and supports to help their families thrive," said Child Development Center Director Jennifer Somers. "The impact of this event is to help Parkland’s single-parent families connect with resources that best fit their needs and remind them that success is within their reach. We want them to know that community support is available to help them achieve their goals."

The event is in partnership with many local leaders, including Parkland Student Life, Wesley Food Pantry, Parkland LPN and Dental Programs, CCRS, SNAP, Crisis Nursery, TAP, University of Illinois, and more.

"My hope is to inspire these students to continue their education with the confidence that they have support in both their academic journey and their parenting responsibilities," Somers said. "We are excited to offer our support to Parkland students and to be part of their journey—whether in education or in parenting."
 
For more information, call the CDC at 217/373-3777.