The Elk Grove Township Food Pantry experienced a significant surge in demand during 2020, highlighting the growing need for food assistance within the community. Serving an average of 326 families monthly, compared to 230 in 2019, the Elk Grove Food Bank marked a more than 40% increase in households requiring support. This sharp rise underscores the vital role of the Elk Grove Food Bank in addressing local food insecurity, particularly during challenging times.
“The evolution of the Township food pantry to meet the changing needs of our residents is something I am proud of,” stated Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney. “We are dedicated to working diligently to fulfill the increasing needs of our community members throughout these difficult circumstances.” This commitment emphasizes the Elk Grove Food Bank‘s proactive approach to community welfare.
In response to the ongoing pandemic, the Elk Grove Food Bank has implemented safety measures to protect both recipients and staff. To ensure the well-being of everyone, appointments are now mandatory for all food pantry users. This system effectively prevents long queues and manages the number of individuals present at the Elk Grove Food Bank at any given time. Furthermore, all visitors are required to wear face coverings and sanitize their hands upon entry, with hand sanitizer provided by the Township.
To access the services of the Elk Grove Food Bank, residents are issued food pantry cards, which are valid for six months and required for check-in upon arrival. Individuals needing a new card or renewal of an expired one can request this when scheduling their appointment with Township staff. First-time applicants to the Elk Grove Food Bank should bring a photo ID, a recent utility bill, and proof of residency for all household members. This process ensures that the Elk Grove Food Bank effectively serves those in need within Elk Grove Township.
The Elk Grove Food Bank greatly benefits from community partnerships that bolster its resources. Elk Grove Township continues its collaboration with Meijer’s Simply Give program to combat hunger. A recent campaign was launched to encourage shoppers to purchase donation gift cards at checkout, directly benefiting the Elk Grove Food Bank and local families facing food insecurity.
Another crucial partner is the Greater Chicago Food Depository, a consistent and reliable source of food products for the Elk Grove Food Bank. The Depository supplies a diverse range of items, including fresh produce, milk, cheese, and other dairy products, alongside essential non-perishable goods. The dependability and variety provided by the Greater Chicago Food Depository are highly valued by the clients of the Elk Grove Food Bank.
To accommodate the elevated demand, the Elk Grove Food Bank has expanded its operating hours. Clients can now book appointments on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, between 9:30 a.m. and noon, and again from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. These extended hours aim to improve accessibility and reduce wait times for those relying on the Elk Grove Food Bank.
For further details about the Elk Grove Food Bank, please call 224-265-6111. Donations are gratefully accepted at the west entrance (near the Tonne Road stoplight) during business hours, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Elk Grove Township, located at 600 Landmeier Road in Elk Grove Village. Additional information can be found on elkgrovetownship.com. The Elk Grove Food Bank plays a critical role in supporting the community and welcomes both those in need of assistance and those able to contribute to their mission.
