With spring’s arrival bringing the end of the school year closer, thousands of children across Chicagoland will soon be losing access to programs that are safe, nurturing, educational and fun. Statistics show three out of 10 students drop out of school each year, of the students making it to their senior year, four out of 10 don’t graduate (Source: Chicago Public Schools data), and 19% of Chicagoland children are at-risk of going hungry (Source: Feeding America).
To help reverse this trend, the Robert R. McCormick Foundation has teamed up with WGN Radio to raise money to help at-risk youth gain access to year-round educational programs and nutritious meals.
The Spring Campaign, a new campaign of WGN Neediest Kids Fund, a McCormick Foundation Fund, will support nonprofit agencies providing programs that concentrate on child and youth education and childhood hunger.
The McCormick Foundation will match all gifts at 50 cents on the dollar, increasing the impact of individual contributions. All administrative costs will be paid, allowing 100 percent of all funds raised, plus the match, to be granted directly to nonprofit organizations helping underserved children reach their full potential.
What started as a holiday toy drive by legendary host Wally Phillips in 1969, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund has grown to help at-risk kids stay in school, eat healthy and prepare for their future. Since inception, nearly $19 million has been granted through the WGN Radio Neediest Kids fund. To learn about the lives of those who have benefited from WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund visit donate.mccormickfoundation.org/WGN-grantee-features.
Please make all checks payable to WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund. The Spring Campaign runs until June 30, 2013.
