Page 38 - May 2020

19th Ward support feeds the efforts of first responders
Driving past storefronts and restau- rants on the once-busy streets of Chi- cago may bring to mind a scene from an apocalyptic movie, but a stroll down any neighborhood side street in the 19th Ward tells a much different story. Deco- rated front doors and street-facing win- dows thanking front-line workers and urging the community to “Stay Home — Save Lives” send a clear message that the spirit of Chicago’s residents is still very much alive, as they work together to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The uplifting door art that now unifies so many Chicago households is just one of the many outreach campaigns led by 19th Ward Alderman Matt O’Shea’s of- fice to raise support and funds for first responders during the pandemic. After years of hosting the annual Get Behind the Vest Pancake Breakfast to help pur- chase lifesaving bulletproof vests for CPD officers, it was no surprise that O’Shea would partner with the Original Pancake House to start a GoFundMe page to pur- chase meals and support front-line first responders and medical workers during the COVID-19 crisis.
“The men and women of the Chicago Police Department put themselves in
harm’s way each day,” O’Shea explained. “I think it’s important for Chicago neigh- borhoods to show support for our offi- cers and help boost morale.”
Shortly after starting the GoFundMe page, O’Shea noticed an influx of do- nations being made by a police officer’s family in his neighborhood, which was
selling yard signs thanking first respond- ers.
“As the demand for signs grew, I stepped in to help the effort,” noted O’Shea.
Now, “Thank You First Responder” yard signs have spread across the 19th Ward and beyond, as residents make a $20 donation to the GoFundMe page with each purchase of a sign supporting front-line heroes. In just one month, the 19th Ward has nearly surpassed its goal of raising $150,000 for the cause.
While finding creative ways to give back to front-line workers, the 19th Ward has made a point of supporting local restaurants that are also essential during this time. To date, the 19th Ward has pur- chased and delivered 15,0000 individual- ly packaged meals for front-line medical workers, police officers and firefighters.
“Our Go Fund Me was launched to support the amazing men and women who are on the front lines of the COVID fight — the people who don’t have the luxury of sheltering in place,” stressed O’Shea. “We also wanted to do some- thing to support local businesses that are struggling in this unique time.”
38 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ MAY 2020