At its 13th annual “A Taste That Matters” event, the Northern Illinois Food Bank raised over $430,000, which means they can provide more than $3.4 million worth of groceries. This impressive amount will support their network of 900 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and feeding programs across 13 counties in Northern Illinois.
Held at the Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace, the event brought together more than 600 guests. Attendees enjoyed a delicious array of food from local chefs and participated in a lively silent auction.
Julie Yurko, the Food Bank’s president and CEO, stressed the importance of community support. “Northern Illinois Food Bank serves 570,000 people each month and distributes 90 million meals annually. Sadly, the need is growing,” she noted. “We’re deeply grateful for the generosity shown by our sponsors and partners.”
Expert opinions highlight a broader trend. Recent studies show that food insecurity is on the rise across the country. According to Feeding America, in the past year, nearly 40 million Americans faced hunger. Factors include rising food costs and the aftershocks of the pandemic. Local organizations like the Northern Illinois Food Bank play a crucial role in addressing this pressing issue.
With ongoing support from local businesses, including Jewel-Osco and PepsiCo, the Food Bank can continue its mission. They offer vital resources to those in need, all while maintaining dignity and respect for individuals seeking help.
For over 40 years, the Northern Illinois Food Bank has worked tirelessly to ensure everyone has the food they need. They rely on donations and nearly 1,000 volunteers each week to evaluate, repack, and distribute food. You can find more information about their work at www.SolveHungerToday.org.
In a time when the need for food assistance is increasingly urgent, the efforts of organizations like the Northern Illinois Food Bank are more important than ever. As communities come together to tackle hunger, every little bit counts.
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