The 22 nd John Bliven Memorial Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2023, during Heritage Days. John served in the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office for 50 years. At the time of his death in 1999, he was the longest serving Illinois Sheriff.

The Samaritan Well Inc. began providing transitional housing services to people in Macomb in 1998. The agency currently operates two shelters, both are fully operated by the agency and each building is individually owned by two separate churches (one is owned by First Christian Church and the other is owned by Maple Avenue Christian Church). Facilities offer 24 hour coverage for safety and provide primarily private rooms, shared bathrooms, laundry facilities, kitchen space, and opportunities for
socialization and recreation.

In addition to providing transitional housing, the agency also offers case management services to those receiving services as they seek solutions to meet their needs which include employment, housing, educational and vocational supports, and engagement in the community.

The Samaritan Well, Inc. receives funds from the Illinois Department of Human Services, Emergency and Transitional Housing Grant (ETH) and Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG) and United Way of McDonough County. These funds cover many of the operating costs but not all. The average monthly cost to operate both shelters is approximately $17,000.

The Samaritan Well, Inc. hosts the John Bliven Run/Walk fundraiser to help to offset agency expenses. The goal for this year’s event is to raise at least $17,000. Monetary and non-monetary donations from members of the community and local organizations are also welcomed. Without the generosity of the Macomb community, it would not be possible to continue serving people experiencing homelessness in
this community.

The agency was able to serve 49 individuals (15 men, of whom 1 were veterans; 24 women; and 10 children) who were experiencing homelessness during fiscal year 2022. So far in fiscal year 2023, 68 individuals have been served (19 men; 26 women; and 23 children) thus far with yearend being June 30, 2023.

You can be a race sponsor at one of the following levels:
• Signature: $500+ • Gold: $250-$499 (name on race shirt) • Silver: $100-$249 • Bronze: $99 and under
Those interested in participating in the 5k or 2 mile race can sign up at
https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Macomb/JohnBlivenMemorialWalkRun . Prizes will be awarded for 1st place in both races.

Donations via check can be sent payable to the Samaritan Well, Inc. and mailed to Attn: Executive Director, Samaritan Well, Inc., 1306 Maple Avenue, Macomb, IL 61455. Donations will also be accepted day of the race.