STEVE WILKOS AND SANTA HELP HOMELESS

Steve Wilkos with Jesse White and Santa

Steve Wilkos and Santa help the needy

Christmas came early this year for Chicago Christian Industrial League (CCIL) families and residents. NBC Universal Domestic Television Distribution’s “The Steve Wilkos Show” donated more than $25,000 in food and gifts to CCIL. Desktop computers, DVD players, televisions, clothing and toys were some of the generous contributions received. “I’m excited about donating four televisions to CCIL. More viewers mean higher ratings,” Wilkos joked. “This is a great opportunity for us to give back and make a difference in people’s lives. It will be great to bring some joy to people who otherwise wouldn’t have anything this holiday season.” CCIL’s community enjoyed lunch catered by the House of Blues, cheesecakes from Eleven City Diner and visits from Santa, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White and Tony the Hawk, a respected member of the Chicago sports “fraternity.” Wilkos is taking his show on the road this holiday season making stops in Milwaukee, Chicago, Nashville, Tampa, Hartford, Boston and Baltimore giving away food, toys, warm coats and much-needed supplies to schools, shelters and rescue missions within local communities. For more information about the tour log on to www.stevewilkos.com Wilkos will bring national attention to the social problem of homelessness by taping a segment of his nationally syndicated show at CCIL. CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre comments, “We are blessed to receive this consideration from Mr. Wilkos. Words simply can’t describe the excitement and delight our organization is feeling from Steve and his team’s sincere gesture in giving back to those less fortunate. His efforts are truly commendable and will not be forgotten.” Founded in 1909, CCIL is one of the largest non-profit organizations empowering homeless individuals and families in rebuilding their lives by providing the highest quality employment, housing, counseling and health services. Please visit ccilworks.org for more information about the Chicago Christian Industrial League’s mission, programs, partnerships and people served."The Steve Wilkos Show" is taped in front of a live studio audience at WMAQ-TV Chicago. Richard Dominick, is the executive producer. The show is distributed in national syndication by NBC Universal Domestic Television Distribution.

Chicago Civic Leader Kathy Posner and Steve Wilkos chat with Secretary Of State Jesse White and Santa
Photos By: James Edstrom