Imagine coming home from work, opening your refrigerator and not having any food for your children or for yourself. Imagine not having the financial resources to afford daily necessities and being told that your local food bank has run low on supplies. Sadly, this is a reality faced by many area residents.
A worsening economy and changes in food stamp benefits has driven up the demand for food pantries at least 50% (with a 168% increase at one local food bank!) compared with this time last year. Unfortunately, food donations have not kept pace. In some locations, food donations have fallen more than 50% during the non-peak donation seasons, while need remains constant year-round.
Fortunately, Northwest Suburban United Way, area food pantires, local governments and area businesses have combined efforts to combat the food shortage. From Sept. 22nd-26th, as part of “Live United” Week, you can make a difference by donating your food items to local drop sites in your community.
We are looking for: Rice, Peanut Butter, Beans – Canned and Dry, Canned Meats and Stews, Macaroni and Cheese, Cereal, Canned Fruits and Veggies, Soups, Powdered and Evaporated Milk, Infant Supplies (baby food, formula, diapers), Hygiene (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant), and Paper Goods (paper towels, toilet paper, napkins).
While we can’t eridicate all the need in our area, we can make a difference. We can put a stake in the ground and say that for one week, for one day, we can all pause in our daily lives and take a stand to advance the common good. We are one community and we can all LIVE UNITED.
Note: List of participating food pantries and public drop sites coming soon.
1. What are the hours for drop off at Maine Township food pantry.
2. I am presently a
food pantry volunteer in the evening. Are there any northwest area food pantries that offer the same?