Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and the effects of famine are felt even in nearby communities, with neighbors left hungry this holiday.
With one in five children in Lake and Cook counties considered severely underfed, a number of organizations are committing their efforts to hunger outreach. Do good to feel good and donate your time, support and non-perishable food goods to one of these organizations.
What: Northfield Township Food Pantry Sip and Shop
Where: J. McLaughlin, 567 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka
When: Tuesday, Oct. 29, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
How: Fight the onslaught of winter with luscious, cozy new threads from J. McLaughlin’s fall collection. Fifteen percent of all proceeds from this evening will benefit the Northfield Township Food Pantry. For more information, call 847-784-1730.
What: Hunger Resource Network Community Outreach Day
Where: Parking lot of Sunset Foods, 1127 Church St., Northbrook
When: Saturday, Nov. 9, 7-10 a.m.
How: Volunteers are needed to distribute 80,000 pounds of chicken to more than 60 local food pantries, homeless shelters and soup kitchens. The chicken is purchased directly from Tyson foods at no cost to the recipient organization. For more information on volunteer opportunities, visit their Facebook page.
What: The Volunteer Center Make A Difference Day
Where: Indian Hill Train Station Parking Lot, Green Bay Road and Winnetka Avenue
When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m. to noon
How: The Volunteer Center’s 11th annual Make A Difference Day is accepting donations of winterwear, clothing, non-perishable food, kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies, paper goods, school supplies, toiletries and more. The Volunteer Center also hosts its annual Thanksgiving Greet and Feed, providing food and holiday decorations for families in need.
What: Beef4Hunger Veteran’s Day Mobile Food Pantry
Where: 200 S. Martin Luther King Drive, Waukegan
When: Monday, Nov. 11, 9:30 a.m.-noon
How: Beef4Hunger is pairing with Northern Illinois Food Bank and the Manna Garden Project to distribute 7,000-10,000 pounds of nutritious foods and 1,000-2,000 high-protein fresh beef meals to almost 300 hungry neighbors. Space for volunteers (groups and individuals) is limited.
What: New Trier Township Food Pantry
Where: Township office, 739 Elm St., Winnetka
When: Weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How: The Township relies on donations from individuals, businesses, religious organizations and community groups to keep the pantry shelves stocked. No donation is too small, and all are appreciated. To schedule a donation, contact the Township Community Services Administrator at 847-446-8203 or visit the website for a complete list of the Food Pantry Wish List.
