Sears Volunteers Help Chicago Homeowners Gear Up for Fall
Sears Outfits Homeowners with Fall Necessities and Beautifies Neighborhood
Blocks
WHO: Dozens of low- and moderate-income homeowners in Chicago's
Avalon Park neighborhood will be well prepared for fall thanks
to the helping hands of nearly 100 Sears associate and retiree
volunteers.
WHAT: In partnership with Chicago Cares, Sears is outfitting Chicago
homeowners with more than $350 worth of fall necessities.
Volunteers will assemble and deliver wheelbarrows chock full
of fall supplies such as leaf blowers, rakes, crock pots,
fleece blankets, jumper cables and Sears Gift Cards to each of
the participating families. Volunteers will also install
safety lighting on the blocks and spruce up vacant lots in the
neighborhood. In addition, Sears is bringing the expertise of
the Chicago Botanic Gardens to the block to enhance a vacant
block by planting shrubs and trees provided by the
organization.
The program is part of the Sears American Dream Campaign, the
company's $100 million community commitment to help millions
of Americans in disadvantaged situations outfit and maintain
their homes and families.
WHY: Fall is a great time to pay attention to the seemingly minor
repairs that can increase the value, safety and efficiency of
a home. Of its 14.5 million service calls in 2002, Sears saw
an increase in service calls for heating systems and cooking
appliances during the fall season.
In addition, homes are the foundation of our families,
neighborhoods and nation. Where homeownership and continued
home maintenance is commonplace, children excel in school,
adults are more active in their communities, local economies
thrive and jobs are created. To strengthen Chicago-area
neighborhoods and celebrate the Sears American Dream
Campaign's first anniversary, the company's Headquarter
associates and Chicago-area retirees have joined together to
help homeowners in need prepare their homes and families for
the fall. Simultaneously, the company is conducting a similar
program in northwest suburban Carpentersville.
WHERE: Blocks of Kenwood, Kimbark and Avalon between 79th Street and
Anthony
WHEN: Saturday, September 13, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES:
-- Families receiving wheelbarrows filled with fall necessities.
-- Volunteers and residents installing security lighting on the blocks.
-- Volunteers beautifying vacant lots by adding park benches and
decorative landscaping.
CONTACT:
Lisa Gibbons
Sears, Roebuck and Co.
(847)286-5506
Cell (847)275-8863
PRNewswire -- Sept. 10
SOURCE: Sears
Web site: