Every year, viewers of ABC7 come together to support local families through the Feed the Love campaign. This initiative provides thousands of meals to those in need. Val Warner from ABC7 highlights this effort by visiting three food banks in the area.
For many families, the rising cost of living makes it hard to afford basic necessities. Aubrey Lewandowski, a mother of four, recently faced this struggle when she lost her job. She explained how she had to choose between paying rent and buying groceries. “Everything’s just getting more and more expensive,” she said, now relying on SNAP benefits and local food pantries to help feed her children.
While Aubrey has found work again, she still visits a food pantry at St. Blase Church in Summit, Illinois. “We get pasta, sauce, vegetables, bread, and fruit—everything we need,” she shared.
Sister Patricia Brynirska, who works at the St. Blase Food Pantry, says they serve around 80 to 90 people every day. This pantry has been operating for over 20 years, supported by Catholic Charities and the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Brynirska noted that sometimes they struggle to meet the needs of the community due to rising prices.
The demand for food assistance is growing. A recent survey showed that many families are becoming increasingly dependent on food pantries. A staggering 60% of respondents reported feeling food insecure in the last year, highlighting the urgent need for programs like Feed the Love.
For Aubrey, the relationship with the pantry is vital. “I can always rely on them to help us,” she said. This consistent support means her family does not have to worry about going hungry.
Support from local organizations is critical during these difficult times. Understanding the struggles many face can foster a stronger sense of community and encourage more people to contribute, whether through donations or volunteering.
To learn more about supporting local food banks, visit Greater Chicago Food Depository.
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