Misericordia Candy Days

State budget cuts have put Misericordia in a tight spot – and Gregg and Susan Hartemayer of Winnetka are out to do something about that.

Their son Kirk, 25, has been a resident at this home for more than 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities for three years.

“He’s got a wonderful life. He lives in a group home with seven guys. They learn to cook, they have 24-hour supervision, they go to jobs, they sing, they have dances every Saturday,” says Susan. “They have a rich life.”

And without Misericordia? “He’d be at home on the couch,” she says. “Kirk went to New Trier until he was 22, and at that point, the government support stops.”

This year, Misericordia needs to raise $13 million to make up the gap between the state’s support and the cost of providing care.

That’s where Candy Days comes in. One of the most public of Misericordia’s fundraisers, this year’s Candy Days will be held April 29-30. Some 10,000 volunteers will fan out over the city and suburbs, handing out Jelly Belly candies in exchange for donations.

“Last year, we raised $1 million,” Gregg says. “This year, our goal is $1.2 million.”

It’s an aggressive goal, but one that Gregg believes can be met through the increased use of social media – and so you will find Misericordia Candy Days on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube this year. Adding their support are long-time Misericordia friends Mike Ditka and Mayor Richard Daley.

“It’s not just North Shore residents who have means who are helped by Misericordia,” says Susan. “some 20 percent of residents are wards of the state – they have no family.”
Susan says that Misericordia fields calls from people in desperate need daily, and has a waiting list of 500.

You can help! Volunteer to be one of the 10,000 who wear the apron and hand out candy (Jelly Bellies) in exchange for donations, or text MIS to 25383 to make a $5 donation, up to six times a month. For more information, visit Misericordia.org, or email CandyDays@misericordia.org.

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