EAST ALTON — The Helmkamp Cares Foundation’s 2026 matching program raised $18,920 for the Community Hope Center in Cottage Hills, bringing together the Gateway Grizzlies and construction industry partners to support services for people experiencing hardship.
The annual program, now in its second year, was designed to expand local philanthropy through contributions from Helmkamp’s network and the broader construction industry.
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The campaign began with a “Swing for a Cause” event at Arsenal BG Ballpark, home of the Gateway Grizzlies. Inning sponsorships, raffle basket sales and direct contributions at the July 30 game raised the first $6,420 toward the campaign goal.
“We are grateful for the generosity and partnership of our industry friends and the Gateway Grizzlies in making this year’s program a home run for our community,” said Kyle Ogden, president of Helmkamp Construction Co. “The Community Hope Center provides vital support to families and individuals experiencing hardship, and we are proud to stand with them in building hope.”
For 38 years, the Community Hope Center has provided food, clothing, community navigation services and assistance with other basic needs to families and individuals facing difficult circumstances.
The center is focused on facility upgrades to allow its food pantry to remain open in all weather conditions, along with improvements to enhance safety for people seeking assistance.
“On behalf of Community Hope Center, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Helmkamp Construction, the Gateway Grizzlies, and their employees and partners for their incredible generosity and support of our mission,” said Ann Crane, the center’s executive director.
“We simply could not do this work without caring community partners who believe in helping their neighbors. We are truly grateful to live and serve in a community filled with such kindness, compassion, and generosity that helps us bring hope to those who need it most.”
Companies participating in or supporting the effort included Air-Therm, Bommarito Construction, Creative Planning, Epic Systems, Friend Acoustical Ceiling, Graycor Construction, Haberberger Mechanical, Hayden Wrecking, JF Electric, Loellke Plumbing, Lowry Electric, Maher & Co., SCI Engineering and TJ Wies Contracting Co.