Elk Grove Township Food Pantry receives overwhelming community support
Elk Grove Township is pleased to announce the incredible success of recent community-driven efforts to support local families in need. The township has seen exponential growth in the number of residents who utilize its Food Pantry, currently serving more than 1,000 families per month, a testament to the growing demand and the community’s generosity.
The #StampOutHunger Food Drive, organized by the National Association of Letter Carriers, is now recognized as the largest one-day food drive in the nation. Residents were encouraged to leave a bag of requested items — dried goods, canned goods, and other nonperishable food — by their mailbox, and their letter carrier did the rest. This initiative resulted in a remarkable 6,185 pounds of food being collected and donated to the food pantry.
The Community Character Coalition (CCC) of Elk Grove hosted another successful food drive on May 18, focusing on essential items like broth, peanut butter, jams/jellies and canned chicken. This event is one of two annual food drives organized by the CCC, with all proceeds going directly to the township's food pantry.
Additionally, Dr. Brian Homann, DDS, offered a $1,000 match for any monetary donations collected during the drive. Thanks to the community's enthusiastic participation, a total of 1,112 pounds of food was collected and donated.
“The township is deeply grateful to area residents and organizations who have been steadfast supporters of the food pantry, given the increasing needs in our community,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor George Busse. “The needs of our community continue to grow and we are proud of the community support that allows us to meet those needs.”
As the gardening season is in full swing, the Elk Grove Township Food Pantry is calling on all local gardeners with an excess of fruits and vegetables. Fresh produce is highly coveted by families who rely on the food pantry, and donations are greatly appreciated. Gardeners who find themselves with more produce than they can consume or distribute are encouraged to donate their surplus. With numerous families in need, nothing will go to waste!
The township accepts donations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. They also accept packages from Amazon, FedEx or USPS. To receive a thank-you letter, include your name and address in the package. For individuals or groups who would like to make larger donations, the township can schedule a pickup time for their convenience.
Monetary donations are also welcome and accepted to fill the gap between what is donated and higher demand items. Checks can be made payable to: “Elk Grove Township Food Pantry” and dropped off/mailed to the township offices, 600 Landmeier Road, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, 60007.
For questions or more information, call (224) 265-6111.