Chicago area food pantries accepting donations amid SNAP lapse
The government shutdown continues, leaving nearly 2 million people in Illinois without Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Food pantries across the Chicago area are reporting an increase in those in need of their services. Local organizations are accepting donations to ensure community members continue to receive free meals.
Here's how you can help your local food pantry.
Food pantries accepting donations in the Chicago area
Moraine Township Food Pantry
The Moraine Township food pantry is accepting donations at 800 Central Ave, Highland Park, Illinois. Donations are accepted from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The most-needed items include pasta sauce, instant coffee, crackers, seasonings, household cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, and baking supplies. You can also donate to the pantry's Amazon wish list.
Irving Park Community Food Pantry
The Irving Park Community Food Pantry is looking for help feeding the growing number of our neighbors in need. The pantry reported a post-COVID record of families fed amid the shutdown.
PayPal donations can be made on the website. You can also use a Zelle account to donate or mail a check to Irving Park Food Pantry, 4256 N. Ridgeway Ave, Chicago IL 60618.
Chicago Hope Food Pantry
The Chicago Hope Food Pantry, located at 2505 N. Kedzie Blvd., is accepting food and winter clothing donations. To coordinate donations and volunteers, call or text at 773-499-9763. Some of the requested donations include:
- Dried beans, pasta
- Canned vegetables, tuna, chicken, fruit
- Flour, simple baking mixes
- Toilet paper, paper towels
- Personal hygiene items
- Scarves, hats, foot warmers
New Hope Food Pantry Chicago
The New Hope Food Pantry Chicago is accepting donations of unexpired and unopened foods. Some items the pantry needs includes cereal, baby food, baby formula, canned tuna, peanut butter and pasta. A full list of accepted donations can be found on the pantry's website.
Northfield Township Food Pantry
The Northfield Township Food Pantry is asking for donations. Any items can be brought to 2550 Waukegan Rd. Suite 200 in Glenview, Illinois.
The most needed items include:
- Juice
- Ramen
- Brown rice
- Baking mixes
- Broth
- Canned Tuna
- Pasta (no spaghetti)