Rochelle Christian Food Pantry Breaks Records: A Historic October Serving Families in Need

The Rochelle Christian Food Pantry set a new record during the week of November 2-8, 2025, serving 237 families. In October alone, they averaged 84 families each distribution day. So far this year, the pantry has helped nearly 7,000 families, according to RCFP Board President Cal Jacobs.

Open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., the pantry offers options to pick up pre-packed boxes or shop freely. Many people arrive as early as 9 a.m. to secure their place in line, and sometimes distribution starts ahead of schedule to accommodate everyone.

Over the last two years, the pantry has seen a steady increase in visitors. Jacobs notes that many clients have lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which might explain some of the rising numbers.

“Our clients often mention they are here due to reduced benefits,” Jacobs said, acknowledging the increasing demand at the pantry. Despite the challenges, the food supply has so far kept pace with the need, thanks to volunteers and community donations. However, Jacobs often finds himself surprised by just how many families are relying on the pantry today compared to two years ago.

High-demand items include meat, fresh produce, and diapers. Notably, the pantry recently ran out of hamburger meat, a rare occurrence. Community support is vital, and Jacobs encourages anyone interested in donating food or funds to visit on a distribution day.

Sixteen dedicated volunteers help manage operations each day. Jacobs emphasized their crucial role in making the pantry functional.

Despite recent increases in donations, Jacobs expressed concern about the overall situation. Rising costs and challenges from the Northern Illinois Food Bank indicate that maintaining food supply may become difficult. Recently, the pantry received 14,000 pounds of food, valued at about $7,000, but the need continues to grow.

Jacobs described the current food insecurity crisis as “scary,” attributing it to soaring rents and grocery prices, along with cuts to government aid. He worries about the pantry’s sustainability in the face of these rising demands.

“I can’t predict what the future holds,” Jacobs said. “We will give our best until we can’t give anymore.” He feels many in the community might not fully understand the gravity of food insecurity in Rochelle and hopes for greater awareness, which could lead to more support.

If the pantry were not here, Jacobs believes many more families would struggle to put food on the table, highlighting the weight of responsibility they bear.

In 2023, a study from the Food Research & Action Center found that food insecurity affects one in ten families in America, a statistic that underscores the ongoing challenges communities face. As the need for support rises, fostering a greater understanding of these issues can help build a more resilient community. For more on food insecurity nationwide, you can visit Feeding America.

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