La Grange Classic Cinema transformed its premises into Bedford Falls earlier this month when it screened “It’s A Wonderful Life” for about 120 socially conscious La Grange-area residents.
The occasion was a benefit to help people experiencing homelessness organized by BEDS Plus, the La Grange-based nonprofit that’s been tackling the issue in the western suburbs since 1988.
The story of George Bailey, a man at the end of his rope who gets a glimpse of what his community would have been like if he’d never been born, is among the most iconic Christmas movies.
Doug Porter, fundraising chair for BEDS Plus, discussed the example of the movie’s main character after the screening.
“Now George was a very selfless individual,” Porter told the audience. “He saved his brother — he put his brother first. He saved people from being poisoned. He saved his father’s business and gave up the travel he always dreamed of.
“I’d just like to pivot to another selfless organization in our backyard, in our community, and that’s BEDS Plus. Like George, we’ve faced our tough moments and continue to face them today.”
Porter said the need for resources to address homelessness is increasing, especially in Cook County, where the homeless population increased by 12.5% last year.
“When we went out in January 2025 and did our census, there were 7,400 homeless people, and we all know that’s undercounted greatly,” he said. “But we don’t despair. We work harder and harder.”
Some of that work involves fundraising events, such as the “It’s a Wonderful Life” screening as well as the BEDS Plus annual Soup & Bread benefit planned for Feb. 1 at the Countryside Banquet and Conference Center, 6200 Joliet Rd.
Erin Molek, BEDS Plus development manager, said the proceeds from those events directly impact people experiencing homelessness.