#United States #Chicago #SNAP Benefits #Wash Smart Laundry

Wash Smart Laundry Aids Local Community

In a commendable effort to support families in need, Wash Smart Laundry has initiated a three-week program offering free laundry services to those impacted by disruptions in SNAP benefits in Chicago. As the program wraps up on November 26, it aims to assist a total of 1,350 families across 17 locations in the city.

The initiative started on November 12, in direct response to the federal government shutdown that halted SNAP benefits, leaving nearly 2 million Illinois residents, including approximately 900,000 in Chicago, without their essential food assistance. While SNAP benefits were restored on November 20 after a 43-day hiatus, many residents are still grappling with the financial aftermath. Wash Smart's program seeks to alleviate some of these pressures by covering the cost of a crucial household expense—their laundry.

Joey Gilb, the Chief Operating Officer of Wash Smart Laundry, stated, "Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. This program is one way we can say thank you and offer real help to families in our community who are under added stress right now."

Under this supportive program, on November 26, Wash Smart will offer the first 50 customers at each location laundry cards worth $10 each, which is sufficient for a complete wash-and-dry cycle. These cards do not expire and require no application process, making them readily accessible. Families who currently receive SNAP benefits can bring their benefit cards to their nearest Wash Smart location to obtain these laundry cards during operating hours, which extend from 5 a.m. to midnight.

This initiative has garnered the support of various local officials, including Aldermen Stephanie D. Coleman, Julia M. Ramirez, Jeylú B. Gutiérrez, and Derrick G. Curtis, along with state Representative Matt Hanson, all of whom have communicated the details of the program to their constituents.

The reach of this program extends across several neighborhoods in Chicago's South and West Sides, as well as suburban areas such as Addison, Elgin, Franklin Park, Montgomery, Niles, and West Chicago. Each of Wash Smart's 17 locations is participating in the distribution of laundry cards, ensuring that community members in need can access this service without complications.

For eligible families, this is an invaluable opportunity to manage one of the many side effects of financial strain, particularly during difficult times. The participating locations include:

• - 4646 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60632
• - 3319 W 55th St, Chicago, IL 60632
• - 5926 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60629
• - 4314 W Marquette Rd, Chicago, IL 60629
• - 6450 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60609
• - 4030 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60609
• - 5112 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60632
• - 2523 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60608
• - 2005 W 79th St, Chicago, IL 60620
• - 4446 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60639
• - 9515 Grand Ave, Franklin Park, IL 60131
• - 511 N Addison Rd, Addison, IL 60101
• - 425 Dundee Ave, Elgin, IL 60120
• - 616 Montgomery Rd, Montgomery, IL 60538
• - 8940 N Greenwood Ave, Niles, IL 60714
• - 8716 W Golf Rd, Niles, IL 60714
• - 149 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago, IL 60185

Wash Smart Laundry is committed to making a positive impact in its community. With high-efficiency machines, free Wi-Fi, and family-friendly zones available at its laundromats, Wash Smart continues to prioritize both care and quality service for all customers. This initiative is a testament to its ongoing commitment to accessibility and community engagement.

For comprehensive details about this program or to locate a participating laundromat, interested individuals can visit Wash Smart Laundry's website.