Spotlight On Aurora Charities

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Hesed House: This organization provides food, shelter, counselling and medical services (Aunt Martha’s) to Aurora’s homeless population. Each night about 200 homeless individuals and families are fed dinner, then a hot breakfast in the morning, and are provided with a sack lunch. As a regular volunteer, I know that Hesed House is always looking for volunteers, and appreciates your support. www.HesedHouse.org

Rotary. I am proud to be a member of one of the largest service clubs in the world with over 1.2 million members in over 30,000 clubs, in 200 countries. Thirty-five years ago, Rotary pledged to end Polio in the world, and has since vaccinated 3 billion children, nearly eradicating the disease. Rotary has raised over $ 2.1 billion to support this effort, including hundreds of million in matching grants from Bill Gates.

There are 2 Rotary clubs in Aurora, the Aurora Rotary Club (meeting weekly at noon) and the Aurora Sunrise Club (meeting weekly at 7:00 a.m.). The Sunrise Club has sponsored over 200 area high school students as exchange students, spending a year in another country. Upon return, the participants report to us that this experience has changed their lives! www.SunriseRotary.org.

Simply Destinee. This organization helps prevent child and teen suicides by providing dance instruction, art therapy, and other programs to Aurora’s youth. The organization was founded by Liza Oliva and her brother Marty Luna. Their programs and services are free to all kids. www.SimplyDestinee.com.

The Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry. Founded by Aurora matriarch Marie Wilkinson over 50 years ago, this non-profit provides food to all in need. Food distribution is on Wednesday and Friday at the West Pantry on Highland Avenue, and Saturdays at the East Pantry located at East Aurora High School. During the school year, Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry provides food to East Aurora High School students twice a month at their after-school pantry distribution. They have recently started a food distribution service for seniors (that I am proud to assist with!) To learn more, visit https://mariewilkinsonfoodpantry.org

Talented Tenth Social Services provides emergency relief to individuals and families in the Aurora Area. They have installed many food donation boxes at area businesses. One particular focus is items for babies, including clothing, diapers, and baby formula. Talented Tenth Social Services also provides and promotes online resources and programs. www.TalentedTenthSS.org

I volunteer with the above organizations and know the great work they do in our community!

Judd Lofchie is an Aurora Alderman, founder of Streetwise, and Candidate for Mayor of Aurora. As Mayor, Lofchie would increase collaboration between Aurora’s non-profit community and the City of Aurora.

Paid for by Judd for Aurora.

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