This weekend, Chicago entrepreneur and philanthropist Willie Wilson will be providing families with free gasoline and grocery aid. Saturday, July 26, will mark Wilson’s 18th year helping families. His goal this weekend is to provide around $150,000 in assistance. Over the years, Wilson has repeatedly come to the aid of residents struggling to meet the cost of living using his personal fortune. Saturday, he’ll be giving away $50 worth of gasoline to be dispensed at 12 locations in Chicago and one in Hinsdale. Additionally, $25 grocery gift cards will be issued at three stores across the city. The gasoline will be distributed starting 7 a.m., while the groceries will be given out at 9, 10, and 11 a.m., depending on the location.
As for the motivation, Wilson’s office cited inflation and new federal tariffs as the major reasons. “Struggling to afford basic necessities,” said Wilson’s office, “Over half of American families are living paycheck to paycheck. We need to look out for each other during tough times.”
As with his other giveaways, this one too will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis. Early arrival is recommended as lines are expected to be long.
Gas Giveaway Locations (Starts at 7:00 a.m.)
- BP – 7600 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL
- BP – 342 E. 35th St., Chicago, IL
- BP – 5201 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL
- BP – 5955 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL
- Shell – 6129 W. North Ave., Oak Park, IL
- Super Save – 48 E. Garfield Blvd., Chicago, IL
- Clark – 7201 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL
- Mobil – 2800 S. Kedzie Ave., Chicago, IL
- Citgo – 1345 N. Pulaski Rd., Chicago, IL
- Citgo – 931 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL
- BP – 1545 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL
- Clark – 3425 E. 95th St., Chicago, IL
- BP – 401 E. Ogden Ave., Hinsdale, IL
Grocery Gift Card Giveaway Locations
- Cermak Fresh Market – 3311 W. 26th St., Chicago, IL (Starts at 9:00 a.m.)
- Montrose Deli – 6601 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL (Starts at 10:00 a.m.)
- Seafood City Supermarket – 5033 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL (Starts at 11:00 a.m.)
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