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Food Pantry donation by the Palos Women's Club LtoR Scott Friedman Ava Barba, student Jessica Contreras Ann Oliver, co-president of PPWC Dr. Pamela J. Haney, President Rosette Leal McCarthy, Co-President PPWC Traci Dawodu, treasurer of PPWC Susan OKeefe, PPWC & Moraine Valley Adjunct Faculty
Moraine Valley Community College’s Project Care Food Pantry, located on the college’s main campus in Palos Hills, was selected as the primary beneficiary for the Palos Park Woman’s Club’s (PPWC) holiday gathering on Dec. 5. This support underscores Moraine Valley’s partnership with local community organizations.
“What began with a single phone call from Susan O’Keefe [PPWC member and Moraine Valley adjunct faculty] quickly became an inspiring introduction to the remarkable women of the PPWC,” Jessica Contreras, director of counseling and holistic student support, said. “When I arrived at their annual holiday event, I was genuinely taken aback by the sheer volume of donations already gathered.”
Both Contreras and Dr. Pamela J. Haney, president of Moraine Valley, spoke at the event on behalf of the college. Each cited that the pantry, which expanded in 2024, has seen a significant increase in student use and continues to fill the gap for those in need of food assistance.
On Monday, Dec. 8, PPWC members came to the Project Care Food Pantry to drop off over 800 donated items, along with cash donations. The members included: Ann Oliver (co-president), Ronette Leal McCarthy (co-president), Traci Dawodu (treasurer) and O’Keefe. They were greeted by Haney, Contreras, Dean of Student Engagement Dr. Scott Friedman and student Ava Barba. Items donated included non-perishable food staples, baking and cooking essentials, breakfast items, hygiene and personal care items, clothing and household essentials.
“With over 800 items collected, this is a testament to not only their dedication, but to the power of community in action,” said Contreras. “Their generosity truly reflects the meaning of community and shows our students that they are supported and valued. We’ve already begun discussing future collaborations, and I’m excited for what we’ll accomplish together.”
For news media inquiries, contact Joshua Lahey, Moraine Valley communications specialist, at (708) 974-5652 or laheyj5@morainevalley.edu.
