Residents of Kankakee’s 2nd Ward are invited to discuss needs in their community during two open houses this week in the Strong Neighborhoods Home at 591 S. Elm Ave. One open house was held last (Wed) evening. Another is Saturday 9/19.

Kankakee School District #111 and the United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties are using a recently-purchased home to offer social service help in the neighborhoods. Barbi Brewer-Watson, executive director of the Kankakee Economic & Community Development Agency, said students studying social work at Olivet Nazarene University will be assisting in community needs assessment with 2nd Ward residents. Information gathered will be used to determine what specific programs and services are most needed in the neighborhood.

The Strong Neighborhood Homes are properties converted into something similar to community centers, but they are customized for residents of the neighborhood. The city of Kankakee acquired a two-story house at the northwest corner of South Elm Avenue and East River Street in late May using federal grant funds.

A second open house is set for Saturday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Residents are asked to register online for 20-minute time slots. .

94.1 WGFA