THE HOPE FOOD PANTRY

REFLECTIONS FROM HFDS DIRECTOR, BETSY BARNETT -- 

When I think back over the last 5 years for the Hope Food Pantry, I realized the one thing that has remained constant is we are always changing and adapting to whatever new challenge arises. Perhaps it is the need for an additional refrigerator to store eggs and milk, or pivoting to drive-through service during the Covid-19 pandemic. Recently our on-going challenge is how to serve twice as many families in the same amount of time.  

In 2022, the Hope Food Pantry served an average of 50 families during our 2- hour pantry distributions on Saturdays.  In 2023, we averaged 76 families (a 50% increase) and now regularly serve 100 families or more (another 32% increase). In 2018, we only gave out shelf stable items. Now our neighbors receive milk, eggs, meat, a little produce, bakery items, personal-care products once a month, and adult and baby diapers. Sourcing food has also become more difficult and more expensive. An increase in donations is necessary for our small pantry to keep serving the community.  

Please consider donations of time and treasure to the Hope Food Pantry. The need is increasing and you can make a difference!

DONATE

While the Hope Food Pantry seeks donations of specific items, monetary donations continue to be the best way to help the food pantry effort.  As a member of the Northern Illinois Food Bank and its purchasing power, donations to Hope Food Pantry stretch a little further. Several employers in the area are matching or even doubling donations made to help the Covid-19 pandemic. Please check with your employers to see if this is available! Copies of the IRS 501(3)C Determination Letter are available for "Hope Food Distribution Services, NFP" if needed.

Visit www.thehopefoodpantry.org to donate online.  

VOLUNTEER

There are many ways to volunteer at HFDS. Volunteers are needed on Friday afternoons to pack bags, Saturday mornings to staff the food pantry, and during the week to help with donation pick ups from our retail partners. Small groups are welcome.  

Learn more at https://thehopefoodpantry.org/.

GARDENS FOR HOPE

We invite you to plant an extra pot or row of veggies at home.  Produce is collected at St Lawrence and offered to guests of the Hope Food Panty.  All vegetables and herbs are appreciated.  If you’re looking for ideas; cherry tomatoes, tomatillos, peppers, kale, chard, zucchini, green beans, cucumbers, parsley, and cilantro are easy to grow and produce a lot of great food. CLICK HERE for more information.