Bloomington-Normal unions bring the holiday spirt to local families

Posted on December 14, 2020
Mike Matejka, a member of Local Laborers 362, feels they are just doing their part in spreading the holiday cheer. (Photo courtesy: Heart of Illinois ABC)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

BLOOMINGTON – Since 1982 the Bloomington-Normal Trades and Labor Assembly collaborated with the McLean County Chamber of Commerce to hold “Christmas for Kids” on Saturday.

They celebrated their 38th year hosting the party for low-income families. Like most events in 2020, COVID-19 shifted the party to a drive-through style celebration.

However, they were still able to provide toys and food baskets from Midwest Food Bank to 297 families with nearly 800 children.

Mike Matejka, a member of Local Laborers 362, feels they are just doing their part in spreading the holiday cheer.

“It’s the spirit of Christmas,” Matejka said. “The spirit of Christmas is giving to others, looking out for your community and making sure that everybody in your community has something to celebrate and has food on their table for Christmas too.”

All of this was made possible with the generosity form business, donors, local unions and more.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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