I will show you my faith by my works.

James 2:18

TOGETHER, OUR IMPACT DOESN’T ADD UP, IT MULTIPLIES

Like cross-pollination in an orchard, where diverse plants together produce richer fruit, the partnership between Project HOPE and Philoptochos in 2024 led to an extraordinary harvest. By uniting their strengths, they distributed 1.3 million meals to vulnerable communities—an impact far greater than either could achieve alone. This remarkable achievement is a living example of the Metropolis enacting its Vision—combining faith, service, and collaboration to bring forth a bountiful harvest of compassion and care.

PHILOPTOCHOS: A VINEYARD OF GRACE IN ACTION

Our Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos Society is like a team of skilled vinedressers. With patient hands and generous hearts, they tirelessly tend the branches of compassion and generosity. Here is a sampling of Philptocho’s impact in 2024:

• Philanthropy Fund: In partnership with the Hellenic Foundation and the National Social Services Fund, distributed $80,000 in aid for essential needs, with $50,000 contributed directly by Philoptochos.
• Feed the Hungry: Philoptochos chapters gave over $450,000 in hunger relief and served more than 6,500 meals a week at the Annunciation Cathedral.
• Blankets for Babies: Delivered 180 cozy blankets to the University of Illinois Pediatric Hospital, bringing warmth and comfort to young patients and their families.
• Operation Classroom: Donated over $23,000 to support 6,724 students in underserved schools, ensuring they have the resources for a brighter future.
• Annual September Luncheon: Hosted 450 guests, raising $30,000 for the Saint Iakovos Retreat Center and $10,000 for cancer patient care through Lemons of Love.
• Dress-A-Girl: Created and distributed 360 dresses and 250 pairs of pants—along with t-shirts, socks, and underwear—to young girls in India, promoting dignity and joy.
• Christmas Celebration: Collected and distributed over 200 winter hats, scarves, and gloves, providing warmth and care to Chicago’s homeless community.
• Midwest Veterans Closet: Contributed 10,000 articles of clothing and blankets, served 6,000 meals, and donated $12,000 to expand the Veterans Closet, supporting veterans in need across the region.

We are inspired by and profoundly grateful for their unwavering dedication and the abundant harvest of compassion they bring forth.