AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic & Natural Health Center and other local businesses collected over 1,000 items for The James Project. 

The annual Thanksgiving in July drive brought together Three Twigs & Co., Luminary Counseling & Solutions, Rose Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic, and Robert’s Seafood Market. 

The James Project is a 501(c3) that supports Sangamon County foster families by providing houses, parental support, provisions through its Closet, and a community of supporters.

Olivia Hayse, executive director at The James Project, said, “We are so passionate about raising awareness of the crisis of the foster care community in our county. There are more than 625 kids in care in our county, with less than 200 foster homes to house them." 

Olivia said support from local businesses was invaluable. “Because of donations like these, we can tangibly meet the needs of foster families and children right in our backyard. Whether through giving household items to foster families, hygiene kits to children going to a new foster placement, or infant care items given to newborns in the foster system, AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic is making a difference in our community by providing for those in need.”

It is the 10th year of the AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic Thanksgiving in July drive. 

Dr. Bryne Willey, owner of AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic, said The James Project fulfills a vital need in the community. 

“Were it not for the work of Olivia, her team, and the foster families, so many children would go without a safe and loving home where they can live the childhood they deserve. As a father and a community member, our Thanksgiving in July drive is the least we can do to support others. 

“We could not do it without the help of our patients, families, and friends. This year, we expanded the drive to include four local businesses, who helped us raise more items than ever. We are truly thankful to Three Twigs & Co., Luminary Counseling & Solutions, Rose Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic, and Robert’s Seafood Market,” said Dr. Bryne. 

AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic will host its annual community Trunk or Treat on Friday, October 18, from 5 pm to 7 pm, along with Damon Priddy – State Farm Insurance on Montvale Drive. 

For more information about AlignLife of Springfield or the Thanksgiving in July drive, please call 217- -787-7500.

On Saturday, October 5, The James Project will host its second annual Serve Up Pickleball Tournament at Iles Pickleball Courts. For more information, visit www.thejamesproject127.com