Havas Chicago has partnered with the nonprofit organization The Night Ministry to introduce “The Donation Display,” a unique initiative aimed at supporting unhoused individuals in Chicago during the holiday season.
Departing from the conventional holiday shopping showcase, this innovative display, located in Havas Chicago’s lobby at 36 E. Grand, offers a deeper narrative, shedding light on the less festive reality faced by Chicago’s 68,000+ unhoused residents.
The Donation Display transforms traditional window shopping into an opportunity for giving. Situated just a block away from the renowned Magnificent Mile, the display features a QR code allowing passersby to make direct contributions to The Night Ministry by scanning it, ensuring that their donations directly benefit disadvantaged families and individuals in the Chicagoland area.
In addition to financial contributions, the agency is accepting physical donations of essential items on behalf of The Night Ministry. From December 6th to December 22nd during business hours, individuals are encouraged to contribute items such as unopened packages of new adult-size underwear, thermal kits, sturdy gloves, winter hats, hand and foot warmers, new men’s t-shirts, new men’s sweatpants, and new adult-size sweatshirts/hoodies. All collected items will be donated directly to The Night Ministry to support those in need during the winter season.
Myra Nussbaum, President and Chief Creative Officer of Havas Chicago, explained the inspiration behind the display, stating, “Our Donation Display depicts a glorious wintery scene in downtown Chicago, but it also depicts the plight of over 68,000 Chicagoans experiencing homelessness and reminds you they need gifts, too. Partnering with The Night Ministry, we invite the community to join in and extend meaningful support for our neighbors.”
Aligned with The Night Ministry’s mission, the initiative aims to provide essential services and warmth to the unhoused community throughout the year. “Through The Donation Display, we’re inviting the community to join us in our efforts to provide warmth during the coldest months and essential services throughout the year to our unhoused neighbors,” said Carol J. Sharp, President and CEO of The Night Ministry.
Display Details:
- Duration: December 6th – January 1st
- Location: 36 E. Grand, Havas Chicago’s lobby
- Participation: Open to the public. Donations can be made via the displayed QR code.
- Physical Donations Accepted: From December 6th until December 22nd, Havas Chicago will accept material donations in their lobby during business hours, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm CT.
The Chicagoland community is invited to visit 36 E. Grand through January 1st, experience The Donation Display, make a contribution, and spread the message of compassion this holiday season.
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