Photos

Teens from Western Springs spreading Easter joy to underserved

Teens from St. John of the Cross Parish in Western Springs assemble Easter baskets for underserved kids during a service project at the parish on March 14, 2021. Teens assembled 360 baskets containing candy, coloring books and crayons, kid’s face masks and a note for the recipients. The baskets were delivered to youth at Off The Streets in West Garfield Park and youth at Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation and, St. Blase and St. Gall parishes. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Brendan Whelton writes a message on a handmade card. “I wanted to come out because it’s Easter and I wanted to help people in need to have a gift and to help them through hard times,” Whelton said. “It’s a good thing, because I just want to help people in need because they need this to lighten their day.” (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Steven Strandberg picks a sticker to decorate what he is working on. Teens made Easter cards out of construction paper and decorated them with stickers. They also shared personal messages written in crayon. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Patrick Kracker ties a ribbon to a finished basket. The basket-making event is something parish youth have participated in for at least 15 years. Last year’s event was canceled because of COVID-19. This year, organizers adjusted to allow for social distancing. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Leah Mini chooses candy for her basket. In addition to candy, the baskets included small toys, crayons and kid-sized face masks. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Declan Kracker adds a coloring book to a basket. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Danny Duff organizes the baskets he filled. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Advertising