Five local businesses collect items for The James Project
AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic & Natural Health Center and four local businesses will collect items for The James Project in July.
AlignLife’s 2024 annual drive will include Three Twigs & Co., Luminary Counseling & Solutions, Rose Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic, and Robert’s Seafood Market.
Olivia Hayse executive director at The James Project, said, “When a kiddo gets put into foster care, they usually only have the clothes on their back and a small bag filled with items. Through our Closet, we can provide shoes, clothes, coats, beds, hygiene items, and more.
“Case workers submit requests on behalf of the foster children, and our network of volunteers fills the children's needs with goods donated to our Closet. Everything the child asks for is then taken directly to the kiddo so that they can feel supported, cared for, and seen.”
The following items can be placed in collection bins at the five participating businesses: for babies, nail clippers, comb/brush sets, baby towels, and bottles (Avent or Dr. Browns). For teenagers, razors, combs/brushes, acne face wash, and duffel bags. For families, canned goods, cereal, paper plates, bowls, napkins, and paper towels.
The James Project Closet currently serves all 625 kids in foster care in Sangamon County.
Olivia said support from local businesses was invaluable. “Whether it is sponsoring an event, hosting a drive, or showing up to volunteer, the support of individuals and businesses allows us to thrive in this community. We are so grateful for the tender and compassionate hearts of businesses like AlignLife, Three Twigs & Co., Luminary Counseling & Solutions, Rose Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic, and Robert’s Seafood Market that are willing to provide for kids in foster care.”
“We are so incredibly thankful for the work that Olivia and her team at The James Project do for youngsters in Sangamon County. Every year, we collect items for a local charity. This year, we wanted to expand our Thanksgiving in July drive to help fill The James Project Closet with the help of our community,” said Dr. Bryne.
This is the first year in its 10 years of hosting a charity drive AlignLife has invited other businesses to participate.
Emily Lewis of Three Twigs & Co. said, “We are thankful for such a humbling opportunity to work with AlignLife of Springfield for their Thanksgiving in July event. Supporting nonprofits like The James Project means so much to our family.”
Luminary Counseling & Solutions is across the street from AlignLife of Springfield, on Montvale Dr. Co-owner Lauren Henton said, “As a group of social workers, our specialty is helping others. We’re excited to be part of this project. By joining AlignLife of Springfield for the Thanksgiving in July Drive, our therapists can make a tangible impact on the children and families served by The James Project.”
Rose Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic has raised funds for The James Project in the previous year. Owner Cori Jahns said, “Supporting local nonprofits is a powerful way to strengthen our community. Together, we can support The James Project in providing vital services to those who need it most.”
Robert’s Seafood Market is family-owned and operated on Jefferson St. Owner Andrea McLaughlin said she and her team were excited to participate in the Thanksgiving in July drive this year. "We are excited to for this year’s drive for The James Project, which means local businesses and their customers or clients can work together for a great cause. Robert’s Seafood Market is proud to be involved.”
For more information about AlignLife of Springfield or the Thanksgiving in July drive, please call 217 787 7500.