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Families Helping Families

Hinsdale Central High School PTO

Families Helping Families (also called FHF) began in 2006 when a Hinsdale Central High School family was identified as being in a desperate and difficult situation. Former PTO Co-President Lisa Stafford was alerted to the family’s needs by HCHS social workers, and the PTO immediately mobilized to provide food, clothing, and other essential supplies.

Recognizing that families in our community could face similar challenges, the PTO established the Families Helping Families Committee to provide ongoing support to HCHS families experiencing hardship.

Our Mission

Over the years, FHF has successfully helped numerous students and families facing severe financial crises. Many students at HCHS struggle with basic necessities that others take for granted—such as being unable to afford lunch, books, school supplies, sports physicals, laptops for homework, or club dues. Others go to school hungry because their families cannot afford groceries, gas, warm winter coats, or proper dental and medical care.

How donations were used in the 2025–2026 School Year:

  • Food and holiday food baskets
  • Gift cards for gas, food, medicine, clothing, and school supplies
  • Warm winter clothing, boots, and backpacks
  • Calculators, new printers, and used laptops
  • Gas money to help struggling parents get to work
  • Complete Thanksgiving dinners for families in need
  • Required medical and sports exams so children could participate in school
  • School-sponsored band trip fees and club dues
  • Pro bono dental care and transportation to medical appointments
  • Personal care items for students living in shelters
  • Sponsorship of students to attend Homecoming & Prom
  • Yearbooks, spirit wear & senior yard signs for students
  • Family utility bills paid

How You Can Help

When a family needs our help, every moment matters. With the support of our community, we can respond quickly and make a meaningful difference when it matters most. Thank you for your continued generosity and support!

  • Make a Donation: We accept gift cards (Jewel, Walmart, Target), cash, or checks made payable to HCHS PTO. Donation Designation should be Families Helping Families or FHF.
  • Get Involved: Our committee welcomes anyone with a philanthropic interest—you do not need to be a current HCHS family to participate. To join us or learn more, please contact our committee at fhf@hcpto.org.