This year, more older adults, working families, and children in Cook County are facing the dire reality of hunger in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For some, this reality is fresh—these residents are facing food insecurity and hunger for the first time ever. But for others, their needs have only grown. And while some residents have their own support systems to lean on, the Greater Chicago Food Depository and its network of programs are there for anyone who may need help closing the gap.
When we heard that this organization was stepping up to meet the increasing need, we knew we wanted to help, too. We’re proud to announce that this summer, we’re providing the Matching Grant for the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s COVID-19 Response Campaign. Every dollar you give will be matched—up to $25,000—to help provide meals and hope throughout Chicago.
Founded as the first food bank in Illinois, the Greater Chicago Food Depository works tirelessly to help Cook County residents of all ages, races and backgrounds overcome food insecurity and hunger. In the last 40 years, this nonprofit has grown to meet changing needs, becoming the hub for a network comprised of more than 700 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and programs that share a common goal: make nourishing food accessible. The staff and supporters of the Food Depository believe that a healthy community starts with food.
Day in and day out, 200,000 pounds of food—including shelf-stable items, protein, and fresh produce—are distributed to those who need it most. Innovative outreach tools like mobile food distributions, Older Adult Community Markets, and food service job training programs not only address hunger as it arises, but also its root causes. Poverty, underemployment and racial inequity are just a few of the contributing factors to food insecurity. The Food Depository believes in a holistic approach to end hunger and inspire hope. But now, the pandemic has caused an unprecedented crisis, which is only expected to worsen as the summer and fall months roll in. Here at Better, we believe in helping our neighbors in need. That’s why we’re so grateful to join the mission to end hunger with the Greater Chicago Food Depository through this Matching Grant opportunity.
Please don’t wait. There are so many facing unprecedented hardship in our communities right now. Please DONATE HERE and give what you can so that your gift can help twice the number of Chicagoans who are struggling to stay nourished this summer.
