Moraine Township seeks sponsors, volunteers for holiday gift drive

HIGHLAND PARK -- Moraine Township officials have begun the process of lining up sponsors for the Phyllis Santullano Holiday Gift Drive for children and the annual food pantry holiday donations for families.

The Santullano Drive is named in memory of Phyllis Santullano, former Highland Park city councilwoman, executive director of the North Suburban Self-Help Center and community activist. In 2007, the township assumed responsibility for the holiday gift event, which was launched 15 years ago. Items will be distributed Dec. 17 and 18.

"Even before Nov. 1 each year, we start to work with schools, religious groups, clubs and agencies to organize the annual gift drives in time for the December holidays," township Supervisor Mari Barnes said.

Barnes is interested in recruiting members of the community to become gift sponsors for one or more children, newborns through 18 years old. Needy youngsters are identified by school social workers and social service provider agencies in the area. Sponsors are matched anonymously and gifts are distributed at the Santullano Holiday Gift Drive in December.

"We hope sponsors will stay within the $50 range per child we're suggesting," Barnes said. "This community effort isn't about the biggest and the best, but about participation, and the personal touch of holiday caring."

To sign up, call the township office at (847) 432-3240 or e-mail Barnes at mailto:super@morainetownship.org or see the township Web site at http://morainetownship.org .