The group focused on providing resources and connecting people with local support resources. Oak Park Mutual Aid was a coalition of Illinois neighbors dedicated to directly caring for one another and those around us in greatest need. Through consistent and deliberate action, the group aimed to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 through dynamic economic and social support and leave a lasting impressio
n of resiliency in the community that will carry on past this crisis. "We are what we create together." Starting in early Mary of 2020, OPMA provided direct community support including resource referrals, food assistance and limited financial assistance to those most in need in and around Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park. By early January of 2021, the network provided over $50,000 in assistance and fulfilled more than 400 aid requests. Additionally, OPMA sought to share updated information from local government bodies and other reputable sources about COVID-19, vaccine availability, and a collection of resources that could help support those living in Oak Park and surrounding area during this difficult time. Website: www.oakparkmutualaid.com
