From the Desk of The Supervior

 November 2011

 The days are getting shorter and the weather has definitely gotten cooler which are signs that we are well on our way to another winter in Illinois!  With this seasonal change comes much more need in our community for those who have been struggling during the financial downturn of our nation.  The City of Champaign Township has seen a sharp increase in the number of individuals who are seeking some sort of assistance to get them through the winter season.  We do try to help as many of these individuals as we can, yet due to the statutory requirements set by the Illinois State Legislature regarding our General Assistance-Transitional Assistance Program, the number of people we can help is limited. Yet, I do believe that although we are unable to help everyone, we are helping those who are in most need. Our clients are individuals who oftentimes fall through the cracks of the system. They are individuals who are too ill to work because of a chronic or life threatening condition and although they may qualify for Social Security Disability or Social Security Insurance there maybe a substantial waiting time for these benefits to start. The City of Champaign Township stands in the gap for them while they are waiting for those benefits. We provide a means of monetary support so that they maybe able to purchase the basic necessities in life that we sometimes take for granted such as shampoo or toilet paper. The Township does its best to provide direction to those individuals who don’t qualify for the GA-TA program by making referrals to other agencies who maybe able to address their immediate needs. If it were a perfect system, there would be no need in our community, but since it is not perfect, we all have to share in the responsibility of helping our fellow citizens in whatever way we are able.

 With Thanksgiving and Christmas approaching, the City of Champaign Township is  planning on providing some special gifts to help our clients who are in need by providing gift  bags filled with essential items such as personal hygiene products and warm weather accessories such as gloves and socks.  The Township is happy to accept any donations that would help us to make the holidays a little bit brighter for those less fortunate. These gifts do not come from the Township budget, but rather from our staff and caring individuals and businesses in our community.  We’ve been truly blessed with good friends who have in the past helped us to bring a little Christmas cheer to those less fortunate than ourselves.  Anyone who would like to make a donation can contact us here at (217) 352-4500 or drop off a donation at 603 S. Randolph Street, Champaign.

 We wish all of you a very happy Thanksgiving.  Stay safe and warm!