The Carol Stream Park District is partnering with the County of DuPage, in support of their Food Pantry Program. By serving as a year-round collection site, the Carol Stream Park District will help fight hunger and food insecurity in the community. Donations will be distributed to the Carol Stream Outreach Community Center and Wayne Township food banks.
Donations can be dropped off at the following park district facilities during operating hours:
Unexpired goods and nonperishable items needed include:
Community facilities near Carol Stream that accept donations and also provide food pantry items to those in need are listed below. If you are in need of food pantry assistance, be sure to check the websites or call for days and hours. Websites are linked.
In addition to the local food pantries and donation locations above, the Northern Illinois Food Bank website helps find local pantries, mobile markets and soup kitchens for access to perishable and nonperishable foods. You can also get fresh groceries weekly through their Mobile Markets across Northern Illinois. Check the website for distribution schedules and calendars.
This initiative to keep local food pantries stocked year-round was spearheaded by County Commissioner Greg Schwarze, DuPage County Board District 6, after being approached by the Northern Illinois Food Bank regarding the ongoing need. Collaborating with Schwarze, Carol Stream Park District Executive Director Sue Rini requested the parks department to build special donation boxes designed to stand out as food collection boxes.
“We are committed to supporting our community in every way we can,” said Sue Rini. “This partnership allows us to take action against food insecurity and offer our facilities as accessible collection points for residents who want to help.”
The marketing awareness campaign, “You can make a difference: GIVE FOOD ALL YEAR ROUND,” will include monthly email reminders to customers, social media posts, and a webpage with more information and links to community donation sites and pantries. Recreation staff are also considering incentives to include the food drive in their programming.
This ongoing effort demonstrates the power of community partnerships in addressing local challenges and making a lasting impact.
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