Richton Park, IL–(ENEWSPF)– On Saturday, Richton Park President Rick Reinbold and State Representative Al Riley welcomed Governor Quinn to the village to partake in the presentation ceremony of the Patriot Home at the Las Fuentes Subdivision. Built with donated labor and materials, the Patriot Home is among several projects established by the Disabled Patriot’s Fund.
Among those gathered for the ceremony were Mike Ford of the Southwest Suburban Home Builders Association, and Patrick McShane of the Disabled Patriot’s Fund, who organizations were very instrumental in building the home by providing the donated resources. The ceremony was also attended by and the Veterans of Foreign War Post 311.
"This project sends a message to our troops that there are a lot of us at home that are very much support you," said McShane.
Governor Quinn thanked Mike Ford, Patrick McShane, and the Village of Richton Park for donating their resources and providing needed services to veterans.
State Representative Al Riley also thanked everyone for coming out and spoke of Senate Bill 206, which he co-sponsored. Senate Bill 206 created a task force to examine the various needs of veterans in relation to jobs and business development.
"This means a lot for the community, Village and district," Riley said. "It means a lot for economic development."
The Patriot home was purchased by Grady and Bertha Wheaton. Wheaton, a military veteran, said, "I know that the Governor has always spoken up for veterans. My family and I feel so blessed."
While the materials and labor were donated, the proceeds of the sale of the home will be utilized to provide additional services to veterans.
The Wheaton family. (Photo: Shelia Hester-Whorton)