Amazon Celebrates One Year in West Humboldt Park with Holiday Turkey Giveaway, Community Check-ins
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Humboldt Park ·
West Humboldt Park residents received an early Thanksgiving gift last week as Amazon employees distributed turkeys and produce during a special giveaway event outside the company's fulfillment center. The initiative is part of Amazon's ongoing community engagement efforts, with company representatives noting, "We're finding that the community is seeing we can bring a lot to the table. It's important for being a good neighbor."
Since opening last year, the West Humboldt Park facility (officially known as SIL4 in Amazon's terminology) has become an integral part of the neighborhood's economic landscape. The company maintains "monthly check-ins" with residents to address concerns, which recently resulted in the city installing a stop sign at Kostner and Potomac avenues to improve safety near the facility. The site represents Amazon's fourth same-day delivery center in Illinois, joining locations in Winfield, Country Club Hills, and Skokie, while adding to the company's network of 22 larger fulfillment centers across the Chicago area.
The center has fulfilled its employment promises, currently employing 500 people with most positions being full-time. Operations Manager Taeshia Hall reported adding 200 new staff since late October, with many hired for the seasonal rush but potentially becoming permanent employees. Workers at the facility can earn up to $23 per hour with benefits starting on their first day of employment. Community members interested in employment opportunities can connect with Amazon through local organizations Bethel New Life and Black Men United, which have partnered with the company to assist residents with the online application process.
Sources:
1. https://chicago.suntimes.com/money/2024/11/27/amazon-overcomes-critics-west-humboldt-park-fulfillment-center-community-roots
2. https://www.wbez.org/business/2024/11/30/amazon-overcomes-critics-west-humboldt-park-fulfillment-center-community-roots