Skip to Main Content
Ready to renew your Medicaid coverage? Explore our step-by-step guide to Medicaid renewal. Here's how
Ready to renew your Medicaid coverage? Explore our step-by-step guide to Medicaid renewal. Here's how

Meridian of Illinois Partners with Jeremiah Development for LOVE Rockford Event

Date: 09/25/21

Meridian of Illinois has partnered with Jeremiah Development for LOVE Rockford, a community event on Saturday, September 25. The event will take place within a three-block area in Rockford’s Coronado Haskell neighborhood. LOVE Rockford will offer access to resources and services onsite to address the needs of residents.

This year marks the fourth annual LOVE Rockford event, which was first established in 2017. The event has 25 committed vendors, representing various physical and mental health organizations and social service agencies. Onsite services will include a drive-through food distribution and a farmer's market of fresh produce for pedestrians. There will also be a distribution of clothing for adults and children, including winter gear. The event will offer a hot and healthy meal for lunch, free haircuts, and giveaways such as children's books.

Winnebago County Health Department will provide vaccines, Narcan kits and training, blood pressure checks and mental health screenings, all free of charge. Meridian will distribute face masks, school supplies, and share information on their health plan and benefits.

“We are proud of our partnership with Jeremiah Development, and to be part of this event once again for the community of Rockford. Alongside several organizations, we are joining hands to support and offer access to services and much-needed resources to the residents of the Coronado Haskell neighborhood,” said James Kiamos, Meridian Plan President and CEO for Illinois.

“LOVE Rockford allows residents the opportunity to access social service agencies, mental and physical health systems as well as meet basic needs for food and clothing in a one-stop shop,” said Sue Kanthak, Executive Director of Jeremiah Development. “Being able to access services in one place removes barriers and allows those in need to see what is available in our community. The professional services of haircuts and bike repair are sorely needed and often the most popular areas.”

The event will take place on Saturday, September 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. within the 200-400 blocks of N. Court Street. As a precaution and to promote social distancing, there is a registration site within each block to avoid lines or large groupings. Attendee can find the registration sites at:  

·       Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 N. Court Street

·       Second First Church, 318 N. Church Street

·       Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 412 N. Church Street

The drive-thru food distribution by the Northern Illinois Food Bank will take place at the Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, located at 406 N. Main Street.

For more information about Meridian and its healthcare support services, visit ilmeridian.com.