Lemont Responds: Blood Drive, Card Collection Planned in Wake of Boston Tragedy

A Lemont organization is asking residents to show their support for those affected by the recent tragedies in Boston and Texas.

In wake of the April 15 bombings at the Boston Marathon and the April 17 fertilizer plant explosion in West, TX, the Hope and Friendship Foundation is holding a community blood drive on Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Lemont Fire Station No. 1, 15900 New Ave.

To schedule an appointment, call 708-342-9722 or visit www.heartlandbc.org. Photo ID is required.

The Hope and Friendship Foundation is also collecting thank you notes, cards and letters now through Sunday, April 28 to send to Boston firefighters, police officers, medical staff and the National Guard, all of whom responded to the bombings and subsequent manhunt for the two suspects. 

Hope and Friendship Founder Terri O'Neill said she hopes to show the first responders "an outpouring of support from a compassionate community that they might have never otherwise heard from."

"This is an act of kindness for friends of all ages," O'Neill said in an email. "Hope and Friendship will pay for the postage we just need you to supply the content of thanks, love and support."

Cards and letters can be dropped off in the Lemont Food Pantry bins at the following locations:

• Starbucks, 1251 State St.
• Lemont Police Department, 14600 127th St.
• Lemont Township Office, 1115 Warren Ave.
• US Bank, 1229 State St. 

For more information, email hopeandfriendship@comcast.net or visit www.hopeandfriendshipfoundation.com.

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