Discover Fresh Solutions: Northern Illinois Food Bank Launches New Market Center in Rockford!

Rockford’s New Food Resource Center Opens for Community Need

Rockford, Illinois, welcomes a new resource for those in need: the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s center and neighborhood market at 1397 Sandy Hollow Road. Opened on April 30, this facility aims to support local residents facing food insecurity.

Sean O’Sullivan, a father of three, knows this struggle firsthand. After losing his job two years ago, he turned to the food bank for help. “It’s tough, but reaching out is important for your family,” he shares. “Don’t feel ashamed. Many people face challenges. Get the support you need.”

Currently, about 17,000 individuals rely on the Northern Illinois Food Bank. CEO Julie Yurko anticipates this number will rise. “We needed more space to welcome more neighbors,” she says, emphasizing the commitment to provide essential food resources.

The challenge extends beyond immediate needs; starting in July, the food bank expects a 20% budget cut. Yurko highlights the urgency for donations and volunteers. “We’re finding ways to make every dollar count. Our goal is to distribute as much food as possible.”

The Rockford center operates on Tuesdays from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There’s also a convenient online ordering option for pickup on Saturday mornings. Participants can self-attest their income, with no maximum salary limit for grocery assistance.

The trend of food insecurity has been growing, particularly due to economic challenges faced by many. Recent studies show that 1 in 8 Americans struggles with hunger, underscoring the importance of local resources like the Northern Illinois Food Bank.

For more information on services and to see how you can assist, visit the Northern Illinois Food Bank website.

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