Words from our partner churches and community members on the value they see in Chicago Shares.
"Several years ago we at Assumption Catholic Church (323 W. Illinois St., Chicago) wanted to set up a program to help the disadvantaged and our "Shares Ministry" was born. We decided that the most efficient way to help the poor was to distribute Chicago Shares because the Shares vouchers are accepted by food outlets, including Jewel. Our guests can use them for food, toiletries and even transportation. At least one of the Jewel stores will allow the Shares' value to be added to Ventra Cards. Chicago Shares are an easy and safe way to help the poor!"
- Susan Carlucci Gold, volunteer, Assumption Catholic Church
- Susan Carlucci Gold, volunteer, Assumption Catholic Church
"Jazz musicians and surviving castaways on a deserted island have one thing in common with churches seeking to help needy people during the pandemic: the ability to improvise. When it became unworkable for the Church of Ascension to continue to operate its neighborhood food pantry, we came across Chicago Shares as a suitable alternative. We give out Chicago Shares vouchers to our guests who typically then go to a nearby Jewel Store. There they can use the vouchers like cash for food and necessities – but never alcohol or tobacco. Chicago Shares are safe and respectful and our guests greatly welcome this assistance."
- Daniel Pillar, a volunteer for the Church of the Ascension, an Episcopal Church located near LaSalle and Division Streets in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood
- Daniel Pillar, a volunteer for the Church of the Ascension, an Episcopal Church located near LaSalle and Division Streets in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood