The Hanover Park Park District has joined forces with the Salvation Army to extend a helping hand to those affected by Hurricane Katrina.

The Hanover Park Park District Community Center is now a Gulf Coast Disaster Relief Drop Off Center. Our surrounding area is expected to receive upwards of 6,000 refugees in the next week; many are being housed at the Elgin Mental Health Facility and others in area churches and public buildings. Containers for donations of food and clothing have been placed at the Park District registration desk and in Centre Court Athletic Club. These donations will directly aid the refugees in our neighborhoods. Centre Court and the Park District are now accepting monetary donations through our facilities at both customer service desks. Monetary donations can be made in the form of cash, check or credit and the donor will receive a receipt at the time of the donation. All monetary donations will be directed to the Salvation Army and will again aid needs of Gulf Coast Relief. For the next few weeks, refreshments will be provided throughout the Community Center and Athletic Club. We are asking that each time you enjoy a cookie, drink or other treat, please drop in a donation. Every penny will help provide relief to the victims of this disaster.

The Community Center is located on 1919 Walnut Avenue in Hanover Park; donations must be made during regular business hours. For more information, please contact the Hanover Park Park District at 630.837.2468.