CHICAGO — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who’s making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we’ve launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Maureen Stanton of Oak Lawn, who nominated State Rep. Fran Hurley and Ald. Matt O’Shea:

Where the nominee lives:
Chicago

Where the person who nominated the hero lives:
Oak Lawn

Name of the nominee:
Fran Hurley and Matt O’Shea

Name of the person who nominated the hero:
Maureen Stanton

Is the nominee considered an "essential worker"?:
Yes

What does the nominee do for work?:
Alderman and State Rep.

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?
They have both gone above and beyond service to this Mt. Greenwood/Beverly community during this pandemic.

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:
Fran is always smiling and willing to help with anything! Matt is actually delivering food to 1st responders and taking care of the elderly.

Thank you for all you do, Matt and Fran!

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.